Patrick Duddek

Patrick Duddek is a Researcher affiliated with the Department of Environmental Systems Science at ETH Zurich. His work focuses on the Physics of Soils and Terrestrial Ecosystems, with a particular emphasis on root-soil interactions and environmental hydrology. His research integrates plant physiology, soil physics, and microbiology to understand processes such as water uptake, drought tolerance, and rhizosphere dynamics.

Key research interests include hydraulic properties of root-soil systems, root hair functionality, and microbial activity under water stress. He employs advanced imaging techniques like synchrotron-based X-ray microtomography to study root architecture and soil structure interactions. His recent work addresses agricultural challenges such as maize growth optimization under varying soil textures and drought conditions.

Publications highlight contributions to understanding root hair effects on water uptake, rhizosphere microbial behavior under stress, and the role of root exudates in plant adaptation. While no formal awards are noted, his interdisciplinary approach bridges environmental science and engineering applications.

His current projects involve field-scale studies of plant-water relationships and genotype-specific exudation strategies in crops. Collaborations likely extend to agricultural and ecological communities focused on sustainable land management.