Organisational unit , 16/06/2025

Research conducted within ZKI-PH 1 “AI-Fundamentals” focuses on the strategic development of novel AI technologies for public health applications. This will include designing fundamental AI methods, such as models for generating synthetic data, and novel analytical approaches to address methodological challenges. It will also include researching the ethical dimensions of AI applications in health and ensuring the quality and reliability of AI models used in medicine, society and public health.

Organisational unit , 07/05/2025

The unit is concerned with a broad spectrum of gastrointestinal, zoonotic, and tropical pathogens. Our remit includes the surveillance of infectious diseases and studies on etiology, causes and spread of super-regional outbreaks of disease. In addition, we conduct scientific studies in infectious disease epidemiology regarding frequency and risk factors for common endemic infections. In order to identify potential threats early and to allow timely reactions, we are evaluating the current epidemiological state of affairs in Germany in the context of the international situation. We inform and advise medical professionals and public institutions regarding measures for the surveillance, prevention and control of emerging infectious diseases.

Organisational unit , 25/04/2025

ZBS 3: Biological Toxins Consultant laboratory for neurotoxin-producing clostridia (botulism, tetanus)

Organisational unit , 16/04/2025

ZBS 7 is a crisis management unit for major biological incidents. The unit advises and supports health authorities as well as police and fire services in the event of diseases caused by highly pathogenic agents or in case of bioterrorist threats. This way, ZBS 7 contributes to the protection of public health.

Press release , 14/03/2025

The presentation of a Heat Action Plan, a lecture on the impact of climate change on communicable diseases, the launch of a heat portal, a traveling exhibition on the health-related connections between climate and nutrition, the use of a heat warning app – these are just some examples of how local health authorities are implementing this year’s motto for the Local Health Authority Day: “Climate Change and Health”, by offering events to the public.

Organisational unit , 04/02/2025

The tasks of this unit are, among other things, the development and optimisation of microbiological, molecular biological and immunological detection systems for the identification, characterisation and differentiation of highly pathogenic microorganisms.

Organisational unit , 29/01/2025

Operating a biosafety level 4 (BSL-4) laboratory within the Robert Koch Institute. Establishment of diagnostic methods and diagnostic of pathogens in biosafety. Development of strategies for the prevention, decontamination and control of highly pathogenic viruses. Participation in / Organisation of interlaboratory tests for quality assurance of diagnostics (national and international),

Organisational unit , 27/01/2025

The Unit 25 ”Physical Health” conducts analyses on the distribution and trends of non-communicable physical diseases and health impairments in the population, including all age groups.

Organisational unit , 22/01/2025

The unit is responsible for obtaining epidemiological data on antibiotic resistance and antibiotic consumption as well as on nosocomial infections and corresponding outbreaks from reports and additional surveillance systems. Furthermore, local, regional and national outbreaks of resistant pathogens are investigated by the unit and measures are derived. These data are used to formulate, adapt and evaluate prevention strategies and to develop recommendations for diagnostics and patient care.

Organisational unit , 22/01/2025

The contact point for the Public Health Service (PHS) is located in unit 31. Both unit 31 and 32 (Surveillance and Electronic Reporting and Information System (DEMIS)) act as the Public Health sector contact points and coordinate and support several committees and networks in the PHS. In terms of content, unit 31 is responsible for crisis management, outbreak investigations and training programmes.The unit is involved in various teaching activities on applied infectious disease epidemiology, crisis management and other topics for the PHS and other target groups, among others in cooperation with the federal states and academies, e.g. in the structured training of medical officers and training of other professional groups in the PHS as well as the Epikurs@RKI.