Short abstract with content covered during RTD:

In this one-day course we will talk about where to find nematodes in the desert. We will learn how to isolate nematodes from soil samples from the Atacama and the Namib and try to identify them under the microscope. We will particularly focus on mouth morphology to distinguish different feeding types, as this will give us a clue on the ecological function of nematodes in desert environments. We will also endeavour to set up a DNA sequencing run on our portable sequencing machine to aid our identification of species and understand community structures. Using existing data from sequencing bacterial communities associated with our nematodes, we will aim to solidify the ideas we have developed about ecological function.

Previous experience:  No previous experience needed.

What you need to participate in the course: An open mind and some patience.

Maximum number of participants: 8 (first come, first served).
PhD candidates of the CRC have priority to participate. Left spaces can be filled up by interested Postdocs of the CRC (write an email beforehand, if interested).

Registration: Register by e-mail to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. 1st Nov 2025.