Markus Schmid, professor of molecular cell biology with specialisation in plants

Plants maintain the potential to form new organs throughout their life. Not only does this mean they can grow continuously, but also that they can adapt to changes in the environment quickly and flexibly. This enables them to develop differently under varying conditions. Markus Schmid explores the molecular mechanisms that control how plants develop, particularly how environmental signals such as day length and temperature regulate the transition from producing leaves to flowering. Understanding how plants perceive and respond to environmental changes can facilitate the development of new crops that are adapted to a changing climate.