Josephus Vermeer

Josephus Vermeer is a Professor at the Institute of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Neuchâtel. Since 2019, he has led the Laboratory of Molecular and Cellular Biology, focusing on plant organogenesis and mechanobiology.

• PhD in Cell Biology, University of Amsterdam (2006)
• Postdoc at University of Amsterdam (2006-2011)
• Marie Curie Fellow at University of Lausanne (2011-2013)
• Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF) Professor at University of Zurich (2013-2019)

His research investigates how regulated volume loss and mechanical forces coordinate organogenesis in plants, using lateral root formation as a model system. Key areas include:

• Cell communication during organ adaptation
• Cytoskeleton dynamics in mechanical conflict resolution
• Suberin biosynthesis and degradation
• Turgor pressure regulation
• Cell wall remodeling
• Imaging-based mechanodetection

His publications reveal trends in plant mechanotransduction, with recent work expanding to monocot models like Brachypodium distachyon. Awards include Marie Curie and SNSF fellowships.

• Lecturer: 'Molecules to Cells' (Medicine, Biology)
• Master's Seminars in Ecology and Sustainability
• Plant Molecular Genetics Teaching