In nature, plants are attacked by a multitude of pathogens and pests. Worldwide, plant diseases and pests cause major crop losses of up to 25%. To protect themselves, plants can activate a sophisticated immune system. Moreover, they recruit beneficial microbes to their root system that help them to grow better and boost immune responses. The Plant-Microbe Interactions research group at Utrecht University investigates how the plant immune system protects plants against microbial pathogens and insect herbivores, and how beneficial microbes in the plant root microbiome stimulates plant growth and health. This provides a rational basis for developing sustainable strategies for disease resistance in next-generation crops that produce more with less input of fertilizers or pesticides. With our research we aim to contributes to grand societal challenges, such as food security and sustainable agriculture.