The tandem with the Julius Kühn Institute

Four questions for Dr Markus Witzler

What are you working on as part of your tandem?

My research focuses on the analysis of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) for the detection of plant pests. In particular, I am investigating the volatile compounds released by insects, bacteria and fungi. The aim is to establish the detection of these VOCs as a screening method whilst also further developing statistical methods and machine learning for the classification of samples.

What does your work at the H-BRS involve in practical terms?

A central part of my work is the design, execution and supervision of experiments. In addition, I am a supervisor for undergraduates and PhD students and contribute to the dialogue within the relevant network of experts.

How do you collaborate with the Julius Kühn Institute?

My industry partner is the Julius Kühn Institute, the Federal Research Institute for Cultivated Plants. The institute carries out regulatory tasks and conducts research into issues relating to agriculture and horticulture. My collaboration takes place with the Braunschweig and Kleinmachnow sites, although I work predominantly remotely from Rheinbach.

The activities at both tandem sites are closely interlinked. Whilst the H-BRS provides the analytical facilities and methods, the Julius Kühn Institute contributes specialist expertise on insects, bacteria and fungi, as well as the relevant sample material. This fosters a continuous exchange of specialist knowledge between the two institutions.

What makes the tandem model special for you?

The tandem arrangement offers me practical experience, plenty of new contacts and an exciting research topic all at once. It therefore offers me a unique opportunity to further refine my academic profile.