Research in Plant Sciences is focusing on the biology of plastids and their integration into the cell. The central questions are approached on an interdisciplinary and system biological level using molecular, genetic, biochemical and cell biological techniques.

From 1912 until 2008 the Plant Sciences division was located in the historical botanical institute associated with the Botanical Garden in Nymphenburg. In 2008 the Plant Sciences relocated to Martinsried, whereas the Systematic Biology and Mycology is still located at the Botanical Garden.