Understanding the genomic basis of biodiversity
Biodiversity is the result of 3.5 billion years of evolution and one of the most complex phenomena on earth. The LOEWE Centre for Translational Biodiversity Genomics focusses on the genetic basis of biological diversity to make it accessible for basic and applied research. We sequence and study genomic variation across the Tree of Life to comprehend the origin and functional adaptations of diversity from genes to ecosystems (Comparative Genomics). The data will address societal knowledge demands in applied fields, such as the genomic basis of biologically active substances (Natural Products Genomics), and the sustainable use and management of biological resources (Genomic Biomonitoring; Functional Environmental Genomics).
Main Objectives of TBG
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establish a new and taxonomically broad genome collection, the Senckenberg Biodiversity Genome Collection (SBGC) as an innovative digital and specimen-based museum collection
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compare genomic diversity across the tree of life to better understand the origin and functions of all levels of biological diversity (from genes to ecosystems)
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make genomic resources accessible for applied research, e.g. for a sustainable bioeconomy or natural resources management.
The joint-venture LOEWE-TBG has been initiated by the Senckenberg Nature Research Society, the Goethe University Frankfurt, the Justus Liebig University Gießen and the Fraunhofer Institute for Molecular Biology and Applied Ecology IMEand is initially funded by the LOEWE programme of the State of Hesse, Germany.
