معرفی
Prof. Marja Timmermans is a Professor at the University of Tübingen's Center for Plant Molecular Biology (ZMBP), leading the Developmental Genetics group within the Faculty of Science. Her research focuses on plant organogenesis, cell differentiation, and the role of mobile small RNAs as morphogens. She uses advanced techniques like single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-Seq) to study root and shoot stem cell niches, contributing to the development of the Arabidopsis root scRNA-Seq atlas. Her lab combines confocal imaging, genetic manipulations, and computational approaches to uncover mechanisms governing adaxial-abaxial polarity and meristem dynamics. Key projects include analyzing miRNA mobility via plasmodesmata and understanding threshold-based readouts of RNA gradients. Current positions include leading a vibrant research group with postdocs, PhD students, and technicians.
Research interests emphasize small RNA regulation, epigenetic control, and developmental patterning. Her work bridges molecular mechanisms with organismal complexity, addressing questions like how stable cell fate boundaries form during leaf development. Technical innovations include the PscB browser for plant single-cell data interrogation. Collaborations span plant genetics, bioinformatics, and evolutionary biology.
Lab members include postdocs like Tom Denyer and Cecilia Lara Mondragon, along with PhD students such as Aleksandar Parvanov. The group is supported by grants including the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation. Notable contributions include seminal papers on miRNA movement dynamics, developmental trajectories in roots, and the role of ancient trans-acting siRNAs in auxin response.
