Jena, 21.07.2026 – The scientific participation of Friedrich-Schiller-Universität Jena in the international Arctic mission ‘Tara Polar Station’ marks a significant step in fundamental microbiological research. The focus is on the ‘Balance of the Microverse’ Cluster of Excellence.
- Project: Balance of the Microverse / Arctic Mission
- Participation: University of Jena
- Research Goal: Analysis of Arctic microalgae
- Status: Sample analysis ongoing, future expedition participation secured
Excellence in the Micro-Cosmos
The ‘Balance of the Microverse’ Cluster of Excellence at the University of Jena investigates complex interactions of microorganisms in their habitats. The Arctic mission provides unique data on the adaptability of microalgae to extreme environmental conditions such as darkness and freezing temperatures. As the base of the food chain and for global oxygen production, these algae are of central importance to the world’s climate.
While no Jena research team is currently present on-site in the pack ice during the current voyage of the ‘Tara Polar Station’, the collaboration is taking place through the analysis of water, ice, and atmospheric samples. As the research group confirmed to the MDR, scientists from the University of Jena are already firmly scheduled to participate in future expeditions of this project.
Source:
Overwintering in the ice drift: Jena research benefits from Arctic mission
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