Find below a current list of CEM members presently working at CEM, Aarhus University.
The Academic Staff members counts tenured and tenure-track professors, senior scientists, and postdocs as well as long-term guests and collaborators. The PhD students counts members fully covered by CEM grant as well as fellows with e.g., Marie Skłodowska-Curie fellowship. We are very grateful to welcome and supervise each semester talented bachelor’s and master’s students. The CEM research work is supported by our technical and administrative staff.
Position: Professor, Head of Center
After my Masters in Biology at the Technical University Munich, a PhD at the Max Planck Institute for Marine Microbiology, postdoc years in Bayreuth (Germany) and Seattle (WA, USA), and an assistant professorship in Bayreuth, I have been at Aarhus University since 2004.
With a background in microbial nitrogen cycling, microsensor technology, and molecular microbial ecology, I have a broad interest in aquatic microbial ecology, geomicrobiology, and (symbiotic) interactions of microbes. After the discovery of electric currents in the seafloor, I became intrigued by their “who?” and “how?” and was part of the team eventually discovering cable bacteria, which I have studied ever since.
Outside of science, I enjoy playing (and listening to) music, spending time with my family, hiking (preferably in the Alpes), as well as playing volleyball.
Position: Professor, Vice Head of Center
I have a PhD in Microbial Ecology from Aarhus University in 1989 and I have essentially worked there ever since.
My scientific interest is microbial life at the border between the oxic and the anoxic world and today it is all about cable bacteria. Before stumbling across electromicrobiology I mainly worked on filamentous sulfur bacteria, microbial nitrogen cycling, and emission of odour and greenhouse gases from agricultural environments.
I share my interests with my grandkids and enjoy family life and a few tours with the fishing rod.
Position: Researcher/academic co-worker
I have a Ph.D. degree from Aarhus University on the development and application of microsensors in microbial ecology. Before that I was Chief Scientific Officer at the microsensor company Unisense A/S.
My main focus at CEM is on technical experimental development and research, mainly within sensor techniques. Currently I am applying myself as project leader in the innovation project BIOMAP (bio.au.dk/BIOMAP) on soil pollution and cable bacteria.
I spend my free time with my family, relaxing and walking the dog.
Position: Senior Scientist and Cryo-EM Facility Manager
I finished my PhD in medical microbiology at Aarhus University in 2002 and later took position as Associate Professor at Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, AU. In 2016 I took position as Cryo-EM Facility Manager at the Interdisciplinary Nanoscience Center, and I have been deeply involved in establishing a National cryo-EM Facility (EMBION) with key stakeholders from the University. This facility now harbors two high-end Titan Krios microscopes and several accessory microscopes and other EM equipment (embion.au.dk).
I have a background in molecular and structural biology and primarily use X-ray crystallography and cryo-EM for atomic structure determination of proteins.
My focus in CEM is the biochemical, functional, and structural analysis of conductor fibres from cable bacteria involved in electron transfer and cytochromes involved in up- and downloading electrons to/from the conductor.
In my spare time I enjoy family life and hiking.
Position: Associate Professor
I received my PhD from Stanford University in 2012, and I have been working at Aarhus University since then.
I specialise in the sequencing and bioinformatic analysis of genomes and genes from microbes and microbial communities, and I am especially interested in the ecophysiological diversity of cable bacteria and microbes associated with cable bacteria.
Position: Professor
Mingdong Dong is Professor in the Interdisciplinary Nanoscience Center. He is applied physicist specializing in advanced surface sensitive scanning probe microscopy (SPM). He has developed several important quantitative SPM-based surface sensitive techniques to investigate electronic, mechanical, thermal, chemical, and magnetic properties in biological systems and nanomaterials, which have been critically important for a better understanding of structure-function relationship. His academic experience ranges from materials science, physical chemistry to biophysics, covers problems in life science and nanoscience, encompasses expertise in SPM. Dr. Dong has been a member of Royal Microscopical Society, ACS, MRS, Biophysical Society and Fellow of the Royal Society of Chemistry.
Position: Associate Professor
I received my PhD at the Max-Planck-Institute for Marine Microbiology in Bremen on microbial symbioses. I further continued as a postdoctoral fellow in the Biogeochemistry department at the same institute for 6 more years. During this time, I have developed and applied the nano-scale Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry (nanoSIMS) methodology for single-cell analysis in microbial ecology. Starting from 2012, I was assuming the position of scientific head of the Centre for Chemical Microscopy (ProVIS) at the Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research (UFZ) in Leipzig. Here I focused on the development of correlative high resolution chemical imaging approaches to understand single cell metabolism, cell-to-cell interactions, and their role in biogeochemical processes. Since February 2023, I joined the Section of Microbiology at Aarhus University as part of the NNF founded project, ReFuel, where I focus on studying bacteria-archaea interactions and their role in anaerobic processes.
I enjoy spending time with my family, listening to classical music and playing basketball.
Position: Assistant Professor
I received my PhD at Aarhus University and then worked as a postdoc at Brussels University, University of Southern Denmark, and Stazione Zoologica Anton Dorhn.
My research focuses on the main factors that regulate macronutrients cycling in benthic systems. I am particularly fascinated by the activity of electro-active bacteria, among which cable bacteria. My work on this topic covers different aspects spanning between their metabolism, geochemical impact, diversity, and lastly, on how microbially-mediated currents can be applied to stimulate degradation and trapping of contaminants.
I address these topics primarily by applying isotopic tracers and sensing techniques such as microelectrodes and optodes.
My personal interests include diving, reading, music, and hang out with friends.
Position: Postdoc
I hold degrees in both classical and microbial ecology from the University of Vienna. During my PhD, which was also at the University of Vienna, I studied the interactions between hosts, symbionts, and the environment in sulphur-oxidising symbioses under the guidance of Prof. Jillian Petersen. My main area of interest is exploring the interactions between organisms, their evolution, and how they impact biogeochemical processes, particularly sulphur cycling. I use a multidisciplinary approach in my research, combining field and laboratory experiments with diverse methods such as bioinformatics, biogeochemical analyses, and microscopy.
In my free time, I enjoy listening to (heavy) music, reading sci-fi and fantasy literature, gardening, making candles, and all things folklore."
Position: Postdoc
I received a Ph.D. from Molecular and Cell biology and Genetics from the University of South Bohemia in Czechia. My focus was on cyanobacteria and function of Type IV pili subunits in photosynthetic life strategy. I was supervised in Laboratory of Photosynthesis, Centre ALGATECH in Třeboň and had internships at universities in Giessen (Germany) and Turku (Finland). I stayed with ALGATECH also for my first postdoc and joined projects on biosynthesis and function of photosynthetic pigments, electron transport, metal cofactors, or assembly and maintenance of large photosynthetic membrane complexes.
I like challenges and get inspired by meeting people. Being a mom leaves me little free time, but the best is being outside, hiking, cycling, books, music, theatre and learning new things.
Position: Postdoc
I'm an electrochemist with around five years of research experience, dedicated to advancing the field. I earned my Ph.D. in Electrochemistry from Isfahan University of Technology (IRAN) in 2023 and have specialized in synthesizing and characterizing nanocomposites for energy storage systems and electrochemical sensors.
With a passion for practical applications, I'm thrilled to embark on a postdoctoral journey to further apply my expertise and drive innovation in electrochemistry, aiming to expand our knowledge and create a meaningful impact in this dynamic field.
Position: Postdoc
I received my PhD from Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur in India, during which, I worked on the development of sustainable batteries using electroactive microbes. I developed an immense fascination for these microbes. To explore the possibility of developing biosensors using them, I joined as a postdoc in the Microsensor lab at Aarhus University. I am currently working towards better understanding of these electroactive biofilms, particularly in terms of micro-scale phenomenon. My interest in the Center for Electromicrobiology stems from looking into the possibilities of capturing electrons from cable bacteria.
Outside the lab, you can find me cooking, swimming, or doing crazy science DIY experiments.
Position: Postdoc
I had my early training in Industrial Microbiology and Biotechnology. I subsequently obtained a PhD in Microbial Electrophysiology and Electrobiotechnology from the University of Ibadan, Nigeria; enhancing extracellular electron transfer (EET) in Pseudomonas aeruginosa. I had postdoctoral research experience at Nazarbayev University, Kazakhstan working on tuning EET in bacterial biofilms for improved biosensing andelectrofermentation using bioelectrochemical systems. I currently work on mechanisms of electroactivity in weak electricigens and elucidating biopolymer-associated EET within biofilms. My hobbies include pencil drawing, singing, dancing, playing football and cooking.
Position: Postdoc
I am currently a Marie Curie Postdoctoral Fellow at the Center for Electromicrobiology in Aarhus University, where I investigate electron transfer and physiology in cable bacteria. I completed my PhD in 2019 from the Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning in India, followed by a postdoctoral stint at the Indian Institute of Technology at New Delhi. I worked on understanding the fundamentals of extracellular electron transfer in microbial communities for developing applications like biosensing and heavy metal recovery. My interest in electromicrobiology eventually lead me to work with cable bacteria.
Aside from research, I love writing and am a science writer with the American Society for Microbiology (ASM). I also practise yoga and meditation, and love playing and watching sports.
Position: Postdoc
I received my PhD in nanoscience in 2016 from Aarhus University. Since then, I worked as postdoc at Copenhagen University and Stanford University before recently returning to Aarhus.
My research focuses on scanning probe microscopy and single-cell biophysics. I work at the interdisciplinary edge of nanoscience, biophysics and engineering, where I apply a combination of scanning probe, nanofabrication and molecular biology techniques.
Position: Postdoc
After obtaining my Master's degree in nanophysics at the the university of Antwerp (Belgium), I did a PhD at Hasselt University (Belgium) where I studied the conductive properties of cable bacteria from a physics perspective.
Now I continue this cross-disciplinary research here at CEM as I study the conductive fibre structure within cable bacteria on both the macroscopic and microscopic scale. Using various electrical experiments, I will try to unravel the electricaly conductive pathways in cable bacteria.
Position: Postdoc
I received my Master’s degree (2018-2021) from physical chemistry in Shandong University. My master thesis focuses on the study of nanofriction properties of 2D materials using AFM.
Currently, I investigate the conduction mechanism of cable bacterial via up-to date and in-situ SPM techniques including SECM and Fluid FM.
In my spare time, I am really into listening Chinese Gufeng music and playing badminton.
Position: PhD student
I am a PhD student in the Biofilm group at iNano with a master’s degree in biology from Aarhus University (2019). My research focuses on understanding the biological role of G-quadruplex/hemin DNAzymes in bacterial biofilms, and how these non-canonical DNA structures influence biofilm architecture and resilience through oxidative stress protection and redox activity. My work involves developing biofilm model systems, confocal microscopy, and fluorescence-based techniques to study DNAzyme activity and localization in microbial communities.
Outside the lab, I am busy with my two kids and enjoy climbing and knitting.
Position: PhD student
I am a PhD student studying the differences between certain species of cable bacteria. I will be studying both the genomic differences bioinformatically and the ecological differences experimentally in the lab. I will also try to find trends in the distribution of cable bacteria in different habitats.
My spare time is mostly spent with my family (husband and two kids), playing in the department band, and baking cakes.
Position: PhD student
I am a PhD student from with a Bachelor's and Master's degree in molecular biology from Aarhus University, and I have a strong interest in structural cell biology.
Here at CEM, I study the structuring of cable bacteria cells with high-resolution cryogenic microscopy and attempt to resolve the tiniest of structures inside and outside cable bacteria. With this, I continue my work on cable bacteria that has also involved room-temperature electron microscopy and elemental analysis. With this work, I contributed to the understanding of how cable bacteria use nickel, sulfur, and iron-rich wires to conduct electrons over centimeter distances. Additionally, I contributed to the discovery of several new cellular features never before seen in cable bacteria.
In my free time, I enjoy exercising, writing fantasy, watching movies, and spending time with the people I love.
Position: PhD student
I am a PhD student at CEM as of August 2024. I completed both my bachelor’s and master’s degrees as a part of the CEM group as well, so I am very happy to continue working here for another three years. The focus of my PhD will revolve around the biogeochemistry of cable bacteria to (hopefully) better understand their role and impact across various cycles. My previous work with cable bacteria during my undergraduate degree was concerned with investigating the potential role of cable bacteria in the production of nitrous oxide in marine sediments.
In my spare time, when I’m not just recharging at home, I love following various types of sports, spending time in nature, cooking, and enjoying the occasional beer with friends.
Position: PhD Student
I am a PhD student at CEM with a master’s degree in Chemistry and bachelor’s degree in Microbiology from the University of Toronto. During my PhD I will be exploring the physiology and metabolism of cable bacteria, with a particular interest in investigating what affects their growth and activity, their capacity for extracellular electron transfer, and the influence of electric fields on their interactions with oxygen.
In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my cat, walking in nature, and harnessing the power of microbes in the kitchen for fermentation. I also enjoy getting lost in the world of tea and collecting mini things.
Position: PhD student
I am a Molecular Biologist from Aarhus University, Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics. During my PhD I will work towards gaining functional information on cable bacteria proteins using a variety of molecular methods. During my Bachelor and Master’s project, I worked with characterisation of cable bacteria metalloproteins.
My spare time is mostly spent socializing with friends and family or relaxing at home while reading or making art crafts. When time allows it, I also enjoy travelling and experiencing different cultures, art and nature.
Position: PhD student
I am a PhD student at iNANO with a bachelor’s degree in Biomedical Engineering and a master’s degree in Biomedical Technologies from Mondragon University (Basque Country). My research focuses on quantifying the mechanical properties of T cells using advanced nanocharacterisation techniques such as AFM and FluidFM.
T cells detect and respond to their surroundings to eliminate pathogens and cancerous cells. By investigating their mechanical features, I aim to contribute to a deeper understanding of how these cells interact with their microenvironment.
I am excited to join the CEM to gain expertise in optical microscopy and FISH, which will complement my current research tools. Additionally, I look forward to the opportunity for interdisciplinary collaboration and expanding the impact of my work through new scientific connections.
Position: MSc student
I am currently doing my Master’s in molecular biology at Aarhus University in Thomas Boesen’s lab group. During my Master’s I will work with cable bacteria and gaining functional knowledge of cable bacteria proteins using various molecular methods. During my Bachelor’s degree I investigated the oxygen reducing machinery in cable bacteria.
In my spare time I like to cook and do triathlon.
Position: MSc student
I am currently doing my master’s thesis with Ian Marshall as supervisor. In my master’s thesis I will investigate whether methanotrophic bacteria of the Crenothrix-Methylobacter clade use Fe(III) as electron donor under anoxic conditions. I also did my bachelor’s degree at CEM exploring microbial communities in rice fields after adding cable bacteria.
In my spare time I enjoy music, running, relaxing, and spending time with family and friends.
Position: MSc student
I hold a Bachelor's degree in Natural Sciences from the University of Camerino in Italy and I am currently studying for a Master's degree in Biological Sciences at the same university. During my studies, I had the opportunity to carry out several scientific outreach and citizen science activities, as well as taking part in practical laboratory work and wildlife monitoring. My fascination with the microscopic world and the interactions between organisms has prompted me to undertake my master's thesis at CEM through the Erasmus programme. My thesis will examine the impact of cable bacteria on the survival of benthic organisms in anoxic conditions.
In my free time, I enjoy drawing and walking.
Position: BSc student
I am currently doing my bachelor's project at iNANO and microbiology with Rikke Meyer and Ramya Veerubhotla as supervisors. We are studying if eDNA such as G4 DNA can boost external electron transfer (EET) in S. Oneidensis biofilms. I think this working with EET in biofilms is super interesting because the study of this field spans so many disciplines.
When I am not in the laboratory, I enjoy cooking with recipes from all over the world and running in parks and forests. I also love foraging seasonal berries, fruits and herbs when the weather is right.
Position: BSc student
I am currently working on my bachelor’s thesis in Thomas Boesen’s lab group, where I study cytochromes and metalloproteins from cable bacteria, focusing on their role in metabolism and electron flow.
In my spare time, I enjoy knitting, spending time in nature, and being with friends and family.
Position: Research Assistant
In the fall of 2024, I wrote my bachelor's thesis at CEM on the metalloproteomes of cable bacteria. Afterwards, I was fortunate to continue at CEM as a student assistant while completing my degree in Engineering in Biotechnology. I now work full-time as an academic employee (AC-bachelor), where my main responsibility is the cultivation of cable bacteria.
In my spare time, I enjoy hiking, watching football, and spending time with my friends and family.
Position: Research assistant
I am working as an research assistant, where I am studying pentaheme cytochromes and truncated hemoglobins from cable bacteria, and trying to elucidate their role in cable bacteria metabolism.
In my spare time enjoy being creative and doing sports.
Position: Research Assistant
I am a research assistant at MBG at Aarhus University at Thomas Boesen’s lab group, where I finished my Master’s project in summer 2024, with the goal of visualizing PilA in cable bacteria. These days I am working on different protein projects in the lab, along with electron microscopy. I am working with PilA, PilA-specific nanobodies, a protein candidate, currently referred to as MHP, and might get more into Ice Nucleating Proteins in the future.
Position: Laboratory Technician
I have been working as a lab technician at Aarhus University for many years. I started at Department of Chemistry, then went to Department of Physics and Astronomy and the last 10 years I have been at iNANO. My areas of work has been very diverse, ranging from synthesis of superconductors to solar cells and analysis of biological material, using high technological equipment as electron microscopy as TEM and SEM.
My current work at CEM consists of ultrastructural analysis of cable bacteria as well as their conductive fibers using TEM and SEM. I am also involved in development of conductive fiber extraction methods to enable studies of fiber conductivity and the underlying molecular structure.
My interests are all about family and nature. I spent a lot of time in my orangery, growing exotic fruits and flowers. I spend my holidays in the Alps in Austria, where I either ski or hike in the mountains.
Position: Laboratory Technician
My work at CEM is as a laboratory technician, I have a Academy profession degree in chemical and biotechnical science.
My introduction to the laboratory technician field was at the institute for ecoscience at AU, primarily working with chemical analysis of nutrients in water samples
and executing the accompanying field work to collect such samples. I have a passion for analysis apparatuses and their underlying theory, and strive to understand the foundations and nuances of their theory and practical use.
In my free time I can often be found with a brush in my hand painting miniatures or entertaining my cat together with my fiance.
Position: Student Assistant
As a student assistant, I support my colleagues at CEM by handling a range of practical tasks. I am currently doing my Bachelor’s degree in Media Science with supplementary subject in Humanistic Technology development.
I enjoy cooking, listening to podcasts, taking long walks, and I love spending time with friends and family.
Position: Center Manager
I took over as Center Manager at CEM August 2022. I have a Master’s degree in Biology from Aarhus University from 1999 and since then I have been working with management and research support in various academic fields e.g. Computer Science, Biology, Molecular Biology, and Biomedicin and in a diversity of settings e.g. at Aarhus University and in The Amazonian forest.
I enjoy providing support to individual researchers as well as to facilitate the general work aspects of an ambitious research center such as collaboration coordination, outreach, administration, reporting etc. etc.
My spare time activities include nature exploring in all forms e.g., walking, sailing, running, cycling, all year swimming etc. Also, happiness comes in many forms however being with friends and family is especially important.
