Wine & Science: Microorganisms - Latest from the Research Front

WINE & SCIENCE: MICROORGANISMS - SOLD OUT 🎫 New tickets go on sale Wednesday, August 12 at 6 p.m.

Four researchers take us into the microscopic world and present their current research. We cannot see microorganisms with the naked eye, but they turn out to play a far greater role in the world than previously assumed - and their mutual communication and interactions with their surroundings are more complex than previously thought.

The programme covers four topics: airborne bacteria and their influence on climate and weather, bacterial chemical communication, biofilm as the most widespread life form of bacteria, and what happens to microorganisms - and us - when permafrost in the Arctic thaws.

Speakers and topics:

Microbiologist and professor RIKKE LOUISE MEYER researches the processes that lead to biofilm formation. Biofilm is a complex ecosystem of cooperating microorganisms - for example the slime layer that forms in bathroom drains or as a coating on teeth. Bacteria form biofilm to protect themselves against external threats, and it is so effective that bacteria can resist biocides, antibiotics and the body's immune system, which creates major challenges in industry and healthcare.

Ph.D. in marine microbiology NATHALIE EIRIS HENRIKSEN, who won DR's Researcher Festival - Ph.D. Cup 2024, has been able to eavesdrop on marine bacteria's chemical "conversations" using a new advanced analysis technology. Microorganisms communicate constantly via signal molecules that control their behaviour and interactions, but the molecules are so volatile and small that they are difficult to trace in nature.

Professor KAI FINSTER is among the pioneers of modern aeromicrobiology - the study of atmospheric microorganisms. Under the title "The Weather Forecast - Now with Bacteria" he tells how airborne bacteria are not just passive passengers on dust particles, but can actively accelerate the formation of raindrops, ice crystals and thus clouds and precipitation.

Professor of microbiology ANDERS PRIEMÉ deals with permafrost