Microorganisms play an important role in nature and are used in many industrial fields. They supply energy, are essential for the production of many food items and, thanks to modern biotechnology, also produce a wide variety of chemicals. SYNMIKRO brings together classic analytical and synthetic research methods, ultramodern high throughput and imaging technologies and computer-based modelling methods in pursuit of a better understanding of the way in which microbial cells and their constituent parts function and in order to equip microorganisms with specifically tailored properties. Possible areas of application include the development of new pharmaceuticals and fine chemicals or the production of biofuels from biomass sources that do not biodegrade easily, such as wood and straw. From the outset the LOEWE centre has pursued a bioethical approach in its research activities.