Martijn Bezemer

Prof. Martijn Bezemer is a Professor of Ecology of Plant-Microbe-Insect Interactions at Leiden University's Institute of Biology Leiden (IBL), Department of Plant Sciences. His research focuses on understanding how plants influence soil biota and how these changes affect subsequent plant growth and insect interactions. Key areas include grassland ecosystems, horticultural soils, and soil microbiome applications in restoration and agriculture.

He leads a team of PhD students and postdocs conducting experiments in greenhouses, growth chambers, and field settings. Current projects include TRIPS (Thrips Reduction In Production Systems), Self Defense (mimicking plant defense mechanisms), and Soils2Guts (soil microbiome health impacts). Collaborations with restoration practitioners aim to enhance grassland biodiversity through soil inoculation and plant-driven soil improvements.

Recent work includes studies on blue-green roof vegetation dynamics, plant community legacy effects on decomposition, and steering crop microbiomes via soil feedback principles. His research bridges fundamental ecology with applied solutions for sustainable agriculture and ecosystem restoration.