Dirk Prüfer

Prof. Dirk Prüfer is a Professor at the University of Münster's Institute for Plant Biology and Biotechnology (IBBP), within the Faculty of Biology. His research focuses on plant biotechnology, particularly phloem biology, natural rubber production from dandelion (Taraxacum koksaghyz), and flower development in crops like tobacco. His group investigates structural phloem proteins (P-proteins, forisomes), isoprenoid metabolism, and regulatory mechanisms controlling floral induction. Key projects include engineering rubber biosynthesis, understanding forisome mechanics for biomaterial applications, and optimizing crop yield through flowering time control.

Education and affiliations: Holds a Dr. rer. nat. (PhD). Teaches biochemistry modules and supervises advanced studies in plant sciences. Collaborates with institutions like the Fraunhofer IME and oversees a large research group including PhD students, postdocs, and technical staff.

Research interests include molecular mechanisms of sieve tube occlusion, plant defense pathways, and biotechnological applications of plant-derived materials. His lab combines CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing, transcriptomics, and microscopy to study plant physiology and stress responses.