Phytopathology

We investigate plant-pathogen interactions in changing environments with a focus on pathogens of forest and ornamental woody plants. Diseases caused by plant pathogens significantly affect ecosystem services and biodiversity. Their impact is expected to increase, as global trade and climate change will facilitate the movement and establishment of invasive pathogens. We use genetic and epidemiological approaches to understand the biology of pathogen populations at different spatial and temporal scales including their responses to forest management and environmental change. Special emphasis is given to the dynamics and control of invasive quarantine organisms. To fulfil legal requirements when working with such pathogens, the group is operating special plant protection laboratories.

Our research provides the basis for pest risk analysis, diagnostics and management of plant diseases, such as the biological control of chestnut blight (Cryphonectria parasitica). Main outreach activities include supporting federal and cantonal authorities in the prevention and containment of quarantine pathogens (e.g. the sudden oak death pathogen, Phytophthora ramorum; pine wood nematode, Bursaphelenchus xylophilus; pitch canker fungus, Gibberella circinata).

Current Projects

Staff

Phytopathology

Simone Prospero

Groupleader

Carolina Cornejo

Technical staff member

Ana Diaz Zuniga

Temporary employee / Scientific staff member

Iva Franic

Scientific staff member

Leandra Fritsi

Apprentice

Renate Heinzelmann

Postdoc

Quirin Kupper

lab technician

Jana Mittelstrass

Scientific staff member

Karla Peranic

Visiting scientist

Daniel Rigling

Visiting scientist

Beat Ruffner

Scientific staff member

Nicolò Sasso

PhD student guest

Saskia Scharl

Apprentice

Wajeeha Shamsi

Postdoc

Philipp Spiegel

Visiting scientist

Tetyana Tsykun

Visiting scientist

Sven Ulrich

lab technician

Robin Winiger

lab technician