We develop and employ various mathematical modeling techniques to under­stand the behavior of cellular systems and to study the relation­ships between structure and function of biomolecular networks. In collaboration with biological partners, we analyze metabolic and regulatory networks in bacteria as well as signaling networks in mam­malian cells.

We develop and apply theoretical methods for the rational (re)design and targeted modification of cellular networks. One particular focus is computational strain design and its application in metabolic engineering and biotechnology.

Genes and proteins of regulatory and signaling networks are often known whereas many of their mutual interactions remain still undiscovered or are unclear. We develop methods for the reconstruction of cellular networks from experimental data.

We investigate the adaptation of E. coli to changing environments especially to changing nutrient and oxygen supply. Experiments are performed under controlled conditions in bioreactors and a multitude of analytical techniques are applied. We are closely collaborating with theoretical partners, e.g., in testing model-based strategies for metabolic engineering.