Scientist studies how plants cope with stress

Tim Godec, a researcher at the National Institute of Biology, dedicates his work to understanding how plants respond to environmental stress. He explains that just like humans, plants can suffer from excessive heat, thirst, or too much water, with some species tolerating these conditions better than others. Godec's specific interest lies in how plants regulate gene activity by opening and closing their DNA, determining which genes are active at any given moment.

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I research how plants cope with stress. They also get too hot, are thirsty, or drink too much. Some tolerate it better, others worse, and comparisons between them tell us why.

His research primarily focuses on potatoes, aiming to develop hardier varieties capable of withstanding climate change. By deciphering these fundamental plant mechanisms, breeders can create crops better suited to new environmental conditions, thereby contributing to more stable food supplies. Godec likens scientific research to solving a Sudoku puzzle, where initial attempts provide clues rather than direct answers, and the eventual discovery of a new piece of information brings a strong sense of accomplishment.

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The more we understand these mechanisms, the easier it is for breeders to develop varieties that can cope with climate change.

Godec's journey into science began in primary school, where an experiment with electrolysis led to an unexpected production of chlorine instead of oxygen. This early experience, which he later evaluated with his chemistry teacher, sparked his curiosity and ultimately led him to pursue a career in research. He finds science appealing because it offers a continuous stream of problems to solve.

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I like solving problems, and there will never be a shortage of them in science. It's a bit like solving Sudoku.

Beyond his research, Godec enjoys spending time outdoors, hiking, and rock climbing. He remains an active scout, appreciating time away from screens. He emphasizes that persistence is key for scientists, as the path from an interesting result to proven discovery is often long. Furthermore, he highlights the increasing importance of collaboration in modern science, noting that complex questions often require a multidisciplinary team of experts.

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Persistence is key, because the path from an interesting result to proof is very long. Today, collaboration is equally important.