The professorship researches molecular mechanisms that control the resilience of fruit trees – especially apples – to biotic and abiotic stress factors. The focus is on the interactions between genes, small RNA networks, the microbiome, and latent viruses and viroids, which act as modulators of plant health and stress resilience. The aim is to use these commonly overlooked genetic and microbial elements to improve the adaptability of fruit trees to climate change.

In the context of both national and international research collaborations, the professorship combines plant physiological approaches with modern genomics and RNA-based technologies, such as spray-induced gene silencing. Identifying key factors for climate resilience enables the development of management strategies that blend classic cultivation methods and innovative biological approaches to plant protection.

In close cooperation with various breeding companies and producer associations – and with the help of Geisenheim students – research results are directly translated into practice, with the goal of promoting sustainable, climate-resilient fruit growing systems.