Matrix - Diversity and functions of the phyllosphere microbiome

In this project, we study the taxonomic and functional diversity of the phyllosphere microbiome of wheat. Together with our Danish and US partners, we isolate and characterize yeasts and bacteria living on and in the flag leaf of wheat. The ultimate goal is to identify novel phyllosphere microbes that contribute to tolerance of wheat plants exposed to abiotic and biotic stresses.  We specifically focus on the diversity, dynamics and functional potential of phyllosphere yeasts, their resilience against radiation and temperature oscillations, and their interaction with the fungal pathogen Fusarium graminearum.