GRK 2010: Biological Responses to Novel and Changing Environments

点击翻译按钮获取中文摘要

The unprecedented level of human impact on nature has induced the current global biodiversity crisis. How organisms are able to react to this global change is thus one of the most pressing research areas. With the exception of a few model species, however, the factors influencing the ability of organisms to successfully respond to environmental change remain largely unexplored. By studying a wide range of organisms, from both aquatic and terrestrial habitats and with different life histories, RESPONSE focuses on the plastic and genetic capacity for in-situ responses to changing environments (cluster A) and on the factors influencing colonisation of new habitats (cluster B). With this integrative and comparative approach, combined with advanced modelling techniques, we aim at deepening the understanding of the limits of species persistence in order to facilitate more accurate projections on the fate of species under changing environmental conditions. The programme additionally spans different levels of biological organization, ranging from individual-level molecular, physiological and behavioural mechanisms to population-level responses. During the first funding period, we established an interactive network of ten research groups with strong and complementary expertise that allows for integration of different taxa, field and laboratorybased approaches, and several research disciplines. Through close collaboration within the RTG and with our external collaborators from other renowned research institutions, we will continue to promote excellent research on the integrated analysis of biological responses to changing environments and to provide outstanding training and working conditions for doctoral researchers. Their research skills will be strengthened by means of an integrated, structured programme of formal research training and individual training-through-research projects. The teaching programme that accompanies the interdisciplinary research strategy covers different scientific topics and techniques relevant to RESPONSE as well as soft skills important for career development. Each project involves stays in collaborating groups. Our training programme will enhance the career prospects of the doctoral researchers and includes intensive career support provided through individualised personal career development plans and mentoring arrangements.