Soil microorganisms are central players in organic matter decomposition, CO₂ release, and recycling of plant nutrients. The Soil Microbial Interactions group investigates how the ecology of soil microbes influences these globally relevant processes, with the aim to understand governing principles of soil biogeochemistry. We pay particular attention to soil bacteria and their viruses (phages), as well as interactions with plant roots, soil fauna, and the abiotic soil habitat. Microbial storage of C, N and P is also a key research interest, as well as the application of soil ecology in agricultural practice.