NCCR Plant Survival

Plant Survival - Plant Survival in Natural and Agricultural Ecosystems

The National Centre of Competence in Research (NCCR), Plant Survival - Plant Survival in Natural and Agricultural Ecosystems, investigates the basic physiological and ecological aspects of plant survival. The research ranges from the molecular level, through ecosystems, to the landscape level. Besides exploring fundamental physiological processes, such as responses to light, researchers also study plant-insect interaction, for example, the importance of chemical defence compounds produced by plants to attract natural enemies of pests. Another focus is on invasive plants; the NCCR Plant Survival aims to explain why these alien species are proliferating at the expense of native species. The NCCR has triggered a reorganisation of biological research at the University of Neuchâtel. It has also contributed to the establishment of a nationwide research network in the field of plant science.

Home institution: University of Neuchâtel