Congratulations to SFB 1551 group leaders Edward Lemke and Andreas Walther at Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz (JGU) on being awarded prestigious European Research Council (ERC) Advanced Grants. With funding of €3.0 million and €2.6 million respectively, they will pursue ambitious, high-impact research projects over the next five years.

🔬 Edward Lemke: Molecular Shape Microscopy (MShapeM)

MShapeM aims to make the dynamic 3D shapes of proteins visible in living cells in real time and at nanometer resolution. By combining advances in bioengineering, fluorescent dye chemistry, and super-resolution microscopy, the project seeks to create “molecular action movies” that reveal how proteins change shape while carrying out their biological functions.

🧬 Andreas Walther: Protoecologies between Artificial Cells and Mammalian Cells (ProtoEco)

ProtoEco explores how artificial cells can interact, communicate, and cooperate with living mammalian cells to form biohybrid “protoecologies.” The project will develop adaptive artificial–living cell communities that exchange signals, energy, and materials, with potential applications ranging from intelligent biomaterials and tissue engineering to future self-regulating therapeutic systems.

These prestigious grants recognize visionary, high-risk/high-gain research and further highlight the outstanding scientific excellence at JGU and within the SFB1551.

🔗 Read the JGU press release: