The group's research covers a wide range of topics centered around plant primary and secondary metabolism and involving the model organism Arabidopsis thaliana as well as the blue-green algae Synechocystis sp. and plants of agricultural interest such as sugar beet and potato. Special focus is given to the biosynthesis and transport of metabolites originating from plant photorespiration including their impact on cellular signaling events. A further research interest is dedicated to the role of plant secondary metabolites shaping soil inhabiting microbial communities.