The Helmholtz Centre 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 Molecular Structural Biology department makes a significant contribution to our understanding of infections by providing detailed insights into the relevant molecular processes. We use state-of-the-art technologies such as cryo-electron microscopy and X-ray crystallography to decipher the structure and function of biological macromolecules (proteins, DNA, RNA). We focus on elucidating the structure of larger macromolecular complexes, including CRISPR/Cas nucleases, capsid polysaccharide transporters and bacterial virulence factors.

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.