Metagenomics is one of the most dynamic fields of modern science. It provides unprecedented insights into the diversity and dynamics of microbial communities and allows functional analysis of microbial communities. The Institute of Metagenomics pursues a broad range of research in human, animal and environmental metagenomics, including the elucidation of complex interactions between microorganisms and their environment, the study of microbial communities living in association with humans or animals, and the role of microbial diversity in ecosystems and human health. The Institute's research focuses on the relationship of the human microbiome to diseases, animal, plant and soil microbiomes, as well as their agricultural, natural and environmental implications. The Institute places great emphasis on innovation and the use of the most advanced techniques available, as reflected in our intensive use of second and state-of-the-art third generation sequencing technologies. With the proliferation of whole-genome sequencing, researchers sometimes have to analyse huge amounts of data. In addition to our expertise in microbial genomics, we work closely with the bioinformatics working group of the One Health Institute. This multi-disciplinary approach, unique to our Institute, allows us to develop novel research projects that address the way genomic data are processed and optimised, to closely collaborate with researchers involved in laboratory and bioinformatics workflows, and ultimately to better understand metagenomic processes.
The Institute of Metagenomics is involved in the development of probiotics that contribute to human health. The Institute maintains a growing collection of candidate probiotic strains, mainly from the Lactobacillales order. The safe use of probiotics is of paramount importance, and the Institute aims to ensure this through detailed genomic analysis of bacterial strains with potential use as probiotics.
An important research area of the Institute is bacteriophage research, including the identification and functional characterisation of bacteriophages with potential therapeutic applications. Antibiotic resistance is a growing global problem in the fight against bacterial infections, and one possible solution is the use of bacteriophages. A current focus of the Institute is the identification and characterisation of phages effective against pathogens of medical or veterinary importance, on which a number of further research and product development projects can build.
In summary, the Institute of Metagenomics offers a broad spectrum of expertise to collaborating academic and non-academic research groups, industrial partners and students.