Clusters of Excellence at the University of Tübingen

The Cluster of Excellence “Controlling Microbes to Fight Infections” (CMFI) builds on existing strengths in microbiology and infection research. Its goal is to understand microbiome-host interactions and to develop integrative therapeutic approaches, such as combating multidrug-resistant microorganisms through the development of novel antibiotics.

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The Cluster of Excellence “Image-guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies” (iFIT) brings together Tübingen’s strengths in cancer research, translational immunology, and multiparametric imaging to develop innovative therapies for tumor diseases. 

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The Cluster of Excellence “Machine Learning – New Perspectives for Science” (ML) has helped establish the University of Tübingen’s internationally recognized expertise in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning. It combines these strengths with disciplines such as neuroscience, linguistics, and geosciences, complemented by systematic ethical reflection on the potential impact of machine learning on science and society. 

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The Cluster of Excellence “GreenRobust” brings together the expertise of the universities of Tübingen, Heidelberg and Hohenheim to investigate the principles of robustness in plant life. The cluster focuses on studying climatic and biotic disturbances, as well as the diversity of robustness mechanisms within a selected group of plant species. This research can make an important contribution to food security under changing climatic conditions. 

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The Cluster of Excellence “HUMAN ORIGINS” examines the past five million years of human development and addresses fundamental questions about human ancestry that are relevant to both science and society. 

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The Cluster of Excellence “TERRA” explores how geo-biosphere interactions respond to and influence environmental changes. TERRA investigates the hypothesis of whether and how geosphere diversity stabilizes the biosphere, and conversely, how biosphere diversity stabilizes the geosphere. This can offer insights into potential approaches for addressing the challenges of climate change. 

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