Keynote and Highlight Lectures
The first conference night opened with the keynote lecture by Prof. Dr. Krishna Niyogi (University of California, Berkeley, USA), sponsored by the German Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (GBM) Study group "Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Research on Plants". His inspiring presentation provided valuable insights into photoprotection and strategies to enhance crop productivity, setting the stage for a stimulating and forward-looking meeting. The important and novel points raised by Prof. Niyogi inspired a fruitful discussion afterwards, which went on for days during meals and at the posters. Many conference participants of all career levels took the chance to interact one on one with Kris, who stayed for the entire meeting.
Another highlight was the prestigious Reinhold von Sengbusch Lecture, delivered by Prof. Dr. Andrea Bräutigam (Bielefeld University). In her talk, “Evolution of CAM Photosynthesis,” she presented fascinating insights into the developmental history and molecular mechanisms of crassulacean acid metabolism, which provides yet another approach to increase plant yields under future climate conditions.
The conference concluded with the Farewell Lecture by Prof. Dr. Christopher Grefen (Ruhr University Bochum), who presented recent advances in membrane protein insertion pathways into the plant endoplasmic reticulum.
Scientific Sessions
The scientific programme covered a broad spectrum of topics central to modern plant biology. Eight thematic sessions addressed Development, Cell Biology, Abiotic Interactions, Tools and Resources, Biotic Interactions, Evolution, Across Fields – called “Querbeet”, as well as Organelles. Together, these sessions highlighted cutting-edge research and reflected the dynamic progress within the molecular plant sciences.
In total, 190 people attended the conference, the programme featured 53 oral presentations and two poster sessions showcasing 82 posters, providing a comprehensive overview of current advances in the field. Notably, 60% of the talks were delivered by PhD students, underscoring the conference’s strong commitment to promoting early-career researchers. Contributions from postdoctoral scientists and junior group leaders further enriched the scientific discourse.
The two poster sessions offered ample opportunity for lively discussions, scientific exchange, and the initiation of new collaborations, fostering a vibrant and interactive atmosphere throughout the meeting.
Awards
A central highlight of MBP2026 was the presentation of several prestigious awards recognizing outstanding scientific achievements. These included the Reinhold-von-Sengbusch Awards for the 3 best talks and the 3 best posters for graduate students, The Plant Journal Talk Award for the best junior group leader oral presentation, and the Agrisera Award for the best talk by a PostDoc.
The SciComm Award from the SPPMB for Science Communication was presented to Prof. Dr. Marco Trujillo (Hamburg).
Sports and Social Activities
In keeping with MBP’s traditions, the conference combined scientific excellence with social engagement. Participants took advantage of the outstanding sports facilities at the Sportschule Hennef, enjoying activities such as football, badminton, and table tennis. A particular highlight was the traditional MBP Conference Cup, which fostered team spirit and informal exchange among attendees.
The conference dinner and subsequent party provided further opportunities for networking in a relaxed atmosphere, strengthening both existing collaborations and new connections within the community.
Conclusion
MBP2026 once again demonstrated its importance as a premier platform for molecular plant sciences. The meeting showcased cutting-edge research, promoted early-career scientists, and fostered interdisciplinary exchange in a vibrant and collaborative environment.
The organisers thank all speakers, participants, sponsors, and supporters, who contributed to the success of the conference. The MBP community looks forward to continuing this tradition of scientific excellence at future meetings. To ensure the success of MBP in the future, we are proud to announce that Prof. Dr. Sascha Laubinger from Martin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg agreed to join the organizing team as an incoming chair. Next main organiser will be Prof. Dr. Andreas Bräutigam (Bielefeld).