Research focuses on the physiology and biochemistry of saprotrophic sporocarp-forming fungi (Basidiomycota, Ascomycota) as well as on biotechnological aspects resulting from their metabolic activities. Particular emphasis is placed on oxyfunctionalizing enzymes and their application in organic synthesis.

Research focuses on the degradation of deadwood (coarse woody debris) by fungi and their extracellular biocatalysts (peroxidases, peroxygenases, laccases, glycoside hydrolases) in forest ecosystems; special attention is paid to functional biodiversity. Moreover, we analyze fungal and bacterial communities in response to varying environmental conditions with molecular tools and we are explore the sequencing and analyzing of fungal genomes.

This section deals with the analysis of elements and compounds in different environmental compartments with focus on water and soil.