Sebastian Hess

Prof. Dr. Sebastian Hess is a Full Professor at the Department of Biology, Technical University of Darmstadt, Germany. His research focuses on the biology of algae and protozoa, particularly their diversity, functional adaptations, and genomic features. He leads the Hess Lab, which explores ecological roles of microeukaryotes using advanced techniques like transcriptomics and integrative taxonomy. Current projects include studying predatory amoebae, fungal interactions, and biotechnological applications of algal adaptations. Hess holds a PhD in Botany from the University of Cologne and has held roles including Junior Research Group Leader (Emmy Noether Programme, DFG) and Postdoctoral Fellowships in Germany and Canada.

Education:

• 2014: Doctoral dissertation in Botany, University of Cologne
• 2005–2011: Diploma in Biology, University of Bonn

Research Interests: The Hess Lab investigates non-fungal microeukaryotes such as microalgae and protozoa, emphasizing their phylogenetic diversity, ecological niches, and adaptations. Key areas include:

• Predatory and symbiotic protist behaviors
• Genomic and cell biological mechanisms of adaptation
• Biotechnological potential of microbial enzymes and biopolymers

Recent discoveries include novel sunscreen strategies in terrestrial algae and a microbial swimming style in protists.

Awards:

• 2019: Emmy Noether Programme (DFG)
• 2015: Karl Gottlieb Grell Prize
• 2005: National science competition 'Jugend forscht' (Biology)

Grants and Advising: Hess secures third-party funding for projects like exploring vampyrellid amoebae diversity and fungal predators in soil. He advises PhD student Justin Teixeira Pereira Bassiaridis and collaborates with international institutions. Open positions are available for students at all levels in biology-related fields.

Labs and Teams: The Hess Lab employs interdisciplinary approaches, with staff including Dr. Brigitte Hertel and Dr. Markus Langhans. Technical and administrative support is provided by Tanja Khalifa and others. Research outputs include high-impact studies on protist predation, algal adaptations, and symbiotic relationships.