New DFG-Project at Constructor University explores topology’s role in biological applications

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New DFG-Project at Constructor University explores topology’s role in biological applications. (Source: Constructor University)

In a project supported by the German Research Foundation (DFG), Professor Dr. Hildegard Meyer-Ortmanns will investigate whether topological protection mechanisms, known from other contexts, also play a role in biological applications.

In mathematics, topology refers to the structure of connections between objects in an abstract space. Thus, topology characterizes how objects are connected. In physical applications, a nontrivial topology may be responsible for the stability of phenomena if they are rather insensitive to a number of different kind of perturbations. Well-known examples are from condensed-matter theory such as the quantum Hall effect.

In biology, networks of genes, cells, neurons, or entire organisms function very well and precisely, although the underlying biochemical reactions and the environment of such networks may fluctuate a lot. “This robustness is only partially understood”, says Meyer-Ortmanns. Therefore, the scientist tries to identify topological protection mechanisms also in biological applications. Topological mechanisms would provide an alternative to conventional explanations, which, so far, are often not satisfactory.

Different networks shall be analyzed with analytical and numerical methods in view of this goal. Insights from this fundamental research may serve to later generate artificial stable networks. DFG supports this project with 225.000 Euro for a period of two years along with a post-doc position.

Scientific contact:
Dr. Hildegard Meyer-Ortmanns | Professor of Physics  
hmeyerortm@constructor.university | Tel.: +49 421 200-3221

 

 

About Constructor University:
Founded in 2001, Constructor University is a top-ranked, English-language, private university, with a campus in Bremen, Germany. With its interdisciplinary approach, advanced digital learning tools and accredited programs, it equips students with fundamental knowledge, critical thinking and practical skills to build their professional career and address the world’s most pressing challenges.
The University emphasizes a synergetic and entrepreneurial spirit, offering program mentoring from top-tier professors and industry experts. Partner collaborations include the Constructor Institute in Schaffhausen, Switzerland, Carnegie Mellon, the National University of Singapore, the University of Geneva, and industry references such as Anisoprint, JetBrains and ChemDiv.
Internationality and diversity lie at the heart of Constructor University, with more than 110 nations at its vibrant and close-knit campus community in Bremen. There, students enjoy active campus life, with access to clubs, professional networks and academic counselling, essential to their personal and academic growth.
Research-centric faculty projects at the University are funded by the German Research Foundation, the European Union's Framework Program for Research and Innovation, and globally leading companies.  
 
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Media Contacts
Name
Daisy Juknischke-Heinsen
Function
Corporate Communications
Email Address
presse@constructor.university
Phone number
+49 421 200-4532