MPI for Marine Microbiology
The Max Planck Institute for Marine Microbiology researches marine bacteria that transform carbon, nitrogen, sulphur and iron compounds, thus playing crucial roles in the global material cycle. These bacteria display widely varying adaptations, e.g. to food gradients in sediments, to low and high temperatures and to high pressure in the deep sea. The scientists at the Institute research material gradients and balances and the influence of currents and sediment-inhabiting animals in the coastal regions of Europe, South America, Africa and the Artic, as well as in hydrothermal sources and in the deep sea. Particular attention is focused on bacteria which, for example, regulate the global nitrogen cycle in the low oxygen milieu. Other bacteria specialise in the decomposition of carbohydrates in plants and oil. Molecular biological technologies are used in the research with a view to attaining a better understanding of the variety, structure and function of microbial marine communities. The complex regulation and evolution of environmentally-relevant microorganisms are analysed in detail through the sequencing of entire bacterial genomes and large fragments of environmental DNA.
How to find us
You can find us here:
Max-Planck-Institut für Marine Mikrobiologie
Celsiusstr. 1
28359 Bremen, Germany
By train, and bus or tram
Start at Marburg Hauptbahnhof (main station) and take a long‑distance train (IC/ICE/RE) north toward Bremen Hauptbahnhof (Bremen Hbf). There are usually one or more changes (often in Kassel, Hannover or Göttingen) depending on the connection you pick.
Once you arrive at Bremen Hbf: Take tram line 6 in the direction of „Universität“ and get off at the stop „Universität Zentralbereich“. From there it’s about a 5‑minute walk to the Max‑Planck‑Institut für Marine Mikrobiologie on Celsiusstraße 1.
Tickets are usually valid across buses and trams in the city and can be bought at vending machines or via transport apps.
Bremen
Bremen is a vibrant city where centuries of maritime history meet cutting-edge science. The University of Bremen, founded in 1971, is renowned for research and innovation in climate science, marine biology, and engineering. Faculty and alumni have made notable contributions to space exploration and environmental studies, reflecting the city’s forward-looking academic spirit.
For culture alongside your conference schedule, explore the Schnoor Quarter, a maze of cobbled streets lined with quaint half-timbered buildings and artisan shops, preserving the charm of the medieval town center. Science enthusiasts will enjoy walks along the Weser River, past the Übersee-Museum Bremen and the Universum Science Center. History buffs can visit the Bremen Roland UNESCO statue or the architecturally striking Böttcherstraße.
Beyond the center, the Viertel and Neustadt districts offer lively cafés, boutiques, leafy streets, and local markets. Nature lovers can unwind in Rhododendron Park, with its seasonal blooms, or the Burgerpark, featuring landscaped gardens and open lawns, perfect for reflection or an outdoor meeting. Bremen balances urban energy, culture, and green spaces, making it an inspiring city for work and leisure alike.
