How do cells find their place in the body – and how do they decide what task they take on? Which signals control the growth of blood vessels in healthy tissue and in disease? How do organs manage to keep their structure and function stable over the years – despite constant renewal at cellular level? And how do genetic mutations change the function of individual cells and cause diseases such as cardiovascular diseases or cancer?

To answer such questions, our scientists are investigating how cells perceive signals from their environment, how they coordinate themselves in space and communicate with each other. The focus is on the formation and dynamics of blood vessels, the role of molecular signaling pathways in development and disease processes and the mechanisms by which tissues maintain their integrity. We are developing new, broadly applicable genetic technologies that allow us to study gene function in every single cell of a living organism in a unique way.

Our research teams are divided into three permanent departments, four research groups, some of which carry out autonomous research projects and which are only temporarily affiliated with the Institute, and two Emeritus groups.