The Leiden University team is led by Prof. Ákos Kovács, who specializes in microbial physiology and multicellular behavior. His research focuses on the molecular mechanisms that coordinate bacterial communities and their adaptation to environmental changes. As part of the MicroClock project, the Leiden group investigates how circadian-like regulation affects microbial systems and their collective behavior.
Ákos Kovács
Prof. Ákos Kovács leads the Leiden University team within the MicroClock project. His lab investigates the growth and development of Bacillus subtilis, focusing on how this plant-associated bacterium forms biofilms and interacts with microorganisms in the rhizosphere. Using molecular biology, transcriptomics, and eco-evolutionary approaches, the team explores how microbial timekeeping mechanisms influence biocontrol efficiency and ecological interactions.
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Romain Avellan
Romain Avellan is a postdoctoral researcher with a background in microbiology and host–pathogen interactions. His previous work focused on bacterial virulence and antimicrobial resistance, employing macrophage infection models, molecular genetics, high-resolution microscopy, and data analysis. He has extensive experience studying the molecular mechanisms that drive infection dynamics.
As part of the MICROCLOCK project, Romain investigates the molecular mechanisms underlying circadian rhythms in Bacillus subtilis. His research aims to uncover the genetic and regulatory components of the bacterial circadian clock through genome-wide genetic screening and molecular biology approaches.