Keram Pfeiffer

Prof. Dr. Keram Pfeiffer serves as a research group leader at the Chair of Zoology II (Behavioral Physiology & Sociobiology) within the Biocenter at the University of Würzburg. His laboratory focuses on the neural mechanisms underlying spatial orientation in insects, particularly bees and locusts, investigating how these creatures navigate using celestial cues.

Prof. Pfeiffer's research centers on the neuronal basis of spatial orientation in insects, with special emphasis on sky-compass orientation. His work investigates how insects integrate various directional signals including the sun's position, sky polarization patterns, and color gradients. Additionally, his lab studies how distance and velocity information is encoded through optic flow during flight, and examines the influence of temperature on navigation signal processing in the brain. The laboratory employs anatomical, physiological, and ethological methods including dye injections into neurons, immunocytochemical staining, electrophysiological studies, and behavioral experiments.

Analysis of Prof. Pfeiffer's publication record reveals a consistent focus on insect navigation systems spanning over fifteen years, with research progressing from fundamental neural coding mechanisms to comprehensive brain mapping. His work demonstrates sophisticated integration of multiple celestial cues in insect navigation systems, with recent research expanding to detailed neuroanatomical mapping of insect brains using advanced imaging techniques.

Prof. Pfeiffer currently supervises doctoral candidate Bianca Jaske and master's students Nina Dauer and Ronja Sinzinger. His research team also includes technical staff members Dirk Ahrens, Evelyn Beetz, and Katja Tschirner who support laboratory operations. He teaches courses at both bachelor's and master's levels including Integrative Behavioral Biology series and Experimental Sociobiology.

The Pfeiffer lab operates within Building B1 (Biocenter) at the University of Würzburg, utilizing a multidisciplinary approach to study insect orientation behaviors. The laboratory maintains connections with other research groups within the department, contributing to a collaborative research environment focused on understanding fundamental biological processes in insect behavior and neurobiology.