Department of
Evolutionary Developmental Genetics

Community efforts & infrastructure

We provide a number of services to the community in order to enhance research in Tribolium and other emerging model systems:
iBeetle-Base: Based on the DFG funded iBeetle-Screen, we established and have maintained the central database for gene function in the red flour beetle Tribolium castaneum
EMOBase: We are currently cloning the iBeetle-Base for other emerging model organisms. The aim is to create an interconnected network of gene function databases. Funding: DFG Priority Program GEvol.
SPIRIT Summer School "Molecular Genetics in Zoology": Every two years, we offer training in gene function studies in emerging model systems for PhD students and postdocs in a one-week course. Supported by SPP GEvol, RTG GönomiX and the Göttingen Center of Molecular Biology (GZMB)
Research Training Group GönomiX: I am leading an RTG that brings together experts in gene function work in emerging model systems and we train a new generation of scientists able to mine the potential of gene function studies in a wide range of animals.
Priority Program GEvol: I am supporting the DFG priority program GEvol as part of the steering committee (spokespersons: Erich Bornberg-Bauer and Barbara Feldmeyer).
iBeetle-Screen: We have performed a genome wide RNAi screen, the data of which is accessible via iBeetle-Base

Tool development: We expand the power of our model system by developing novel tools. We have established transgenic tools for misexpression, spatio-temporal restriction of RNAi and of marking of homologous neurons in flies and beetles using CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing. We have been working on enhancing the efficacy of genome editing and have been trying to establish tools for sparse marking of homologous neurons.