25 June 2026, by Website Team Biologie

Dear members and colleagues of the MIN Faculty and the Department of Biology,

We are delighted to cordially invite you to the inaugural lecture of our new professor, Prof. Dr. Arne Weiberg. This event will take place on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, at 4:30 p.m., and is titled: “RNA Infection Biology of Plants.” The event will be held in English, and a small champagne reception is planned afterward.

In his inaugural lecture, Prof. Dr. Arne Weiberg will provide insights into the central themes and research questions of his work and offer a glimpse into how RNA can be used for future plant protection strategies.

Abstract

"What are the molecular mechanisms of pathogens to infect plants? And, how can we develop interfering strategies against invading pathogens to protect our crops?

Our research team has discovered extracellular small RNA as molecular weapons of filamentous plant pathogens to manipulate host plants for infection. This infection strategy has been termed cross-kingdom RNA interference.

We are exploring the functional role and the underlying molecular mechanisms of cross-kingdom RNA communication. By understanding the nature of RNA communication at the mechanistical level, we envision to develop novel RNA-based plant protection strategies for more sustainable and eco-friendly agricultural production systems in the future."

Prof. Dr. Arne Weiberg was appointed last year to a W2 professorship in “Plant RNA Infection Biology” in the Department of Biology at the MIN Faculty and assumed his position on March 1, 2025. With his expertise, he brings fresh perspectives to molecular plant and infection biology.

This event is open to all staff and students of the MIN Faculty—we cordially invite you to join us in celebrating this occasion.

Mark your calendars! We very much look forward to seeing many of you there and to an interesting exchange of ideas.

Venue

Biozentrum Klein Flottbek, IPM, CvL Lecture Hall (E.001), Ohnhorststrasse 18, 22609 Hamburg

Those interested also have the option to participate in the event via Zoom (link).