Evaluating stability and resilience in complex but defined microbial communities

This project is focused in the manipulation and study of semi-complex but defined microbiomes (15-20 strains) through targeted balance/disbalance experiments in chemostat fermentations with the purpose of emulating complex microbiomes with the smallest possible set of bacteria. Herewith, a selected set of key species (theoretical data) from a particular environment (Groundwater) is currently under evaluation. Within the experimental setup, a plethora of individual and community-based data is collected for deep analysis of microbiome functions for the generation and improvement of existing ecological models (Collaboration - Rosalind Allen, FSU Jena). A major goal is to transfer these models to other microbiomes. Consequently, similar experimental setups are to be tested with other microbial communities, either plant-derived or with ancient natural microbiomes like the one from the Mongolian yoghurt Khörängö.