Abteilung Wasserressourcen und Trinkwasser

This project explores how microorganisms interact with complex physical and chemical environments in soils and aquifers, where fluid flow and geochemical conditions are constantly changing. Understanding this abiotic–biotic interplay is essential for processes such as bioremediation and biomineralization. Using innovative experimental and analytical approaches, this research investigates microbial behavior across scales—from individual cells to entire communities. At the single-cell level, we study how chemotactic bacteria navigate nutrient heterogeneity, showing their ability to cluster around nutrient hotspots depends on local flow conditions and physical structure. At the community level, we study how microbial growth and biofilm formation reshape porous media, generating dynamic flow paths. These are crucial factors influencing solute transport and microbial reactions. Overall, this project will advance our understanding of microbial processes in subsurface ecosystems and their role in regulating key biogeochemical cycles, offering new perspectives for environmental and engineered applications such as groundwater quality management and sustainable resource recovery.