As a member of the Helmholtz Association, the Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, based in Braunschweig, conducts top-level research in the field of infectious diseases. Our scientists develop novel methods and strategies to fight infectious diseases faster and more effectively. Our common goal is to develop novel approaches for 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 substances and vaccines.

Information about the working group:

Our research in Dr. Herhaus's junior scientist group focuses on cell homeostasis and intrinsic and extrinsic cell immunity in pathogen infections. We are interested in deciphering mechanisms of innate immunity that are regulated, for example, by autophagy, using cell culture techniques and mouse models. We are associated with the DFG-funded Collaborative Research Center 1177 on selective autophagy (www.sfb1177.de). In addition, we aim to better understand cell-cell communication via extracellular vesicles and their influence on immune regeneration. We are looking for support for our project to decipher the molecular mechanisms by which pathogens use cellular membranes and organelles, especially their contact points, for the spread and survival of pathogens. We also offer the opportunity to work on exciting projects in a highly collaborative, multidisciplinary, and international team, embedded in the excellent scientific environment at the HZI with direct access to state-of-the-art technological facilities.

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.