The Helmholtz Center for Infection Research, based in Braunschweig, is a member of the Helmholtz Association and conducts cutting-edge research in the field of infectious diseases. Our scientists develop novel methods and strategies to combat infectious diseases more quickly and effectively. Our common goal is to develop novel approaches to the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of infectious diseases. Our research focuses on bacterial and viral pathogens, their interaction with the human immune system, and new effective drugs and vaccines.

The Governance & Organizational Development (GO) department was founded in May 2025 and currently has 10 employees. It is responsible for the sustainable and innovative development of the HZI while ensuring that legal requirements are observed and complied with both within and outside the organization. The GO department

• develops and advises on efficient and effective organizational structures,
• describes and digitizes central processes and procedures,
• advises on legal and contractual issues,
• ensures compliance and mitigates operational risks,
• coordinates reporting on risks, compliance, and governance,
• develops innovative change projects, and
• communicates this through participatory dialogue and exchange formats.

All activities are based on the HZI's sustainability goals, which aim to increase the positive impact of the organization and minimize negative environmental and social effects. Sustainability management is therefore an integral part of all activities.

In terms of organization, information security is the responsibility of the GO department.

This research center is part of the Helmholtz Association of German Research Centers. With more than 42,000 employees and an annual budget of over € 5 billion, the Helmholtz Association is Germany's largest scientific organisation.