Prof. Dr. Mathias Munschauer, an internationally recognized expert on RNA viruses, has taken over as head of the Department of Molecular Virology at the Center for Infectious Diseases at Heidelberg University Hospital (UKHD). At the same time, he took up a W3 professorship in molecular virology at the Medical Faculty of the University of Heidelberg . Munschauer succeeds Prof. Dr. Ralf Bartenschlager, who has devoted himself more to his research projects after his retirement.

Munschauer’s scientific career began with an internship at the German Cancer Research Center in Heidelberg, which awakened his passion for molecular biology research. After working at renowned institutions such as Rockefeller University, the Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine, the Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard and the Helmholtz Institute for RNA-based Infection Research in Würzburg, he is now returning to Heidelberg as a proven specialist in RNA viruses. His research focuses on the molecular processes that determine the success or failure of the infection after an RNA virus enters a cell. He is particularly interested in how the viral genome interacts with host factors to enable the virus to multiply.

A central goal of Munschauer’s work is the systematic investigation of these early intracellular interactions using modern RNA analysis techniques, machine learning and imaging techniques. These approaches should not only decipher the mechanisms of viral infections, but also provide clues to the pandemic potential of emerging viruses. In the long term, the findings could form the basis for new therapeutic strategies. Munschauer emphasizes the importance of RNA not only as a central element of pathogens, but also as a promising basis for innovative therapeutics, such as mRNA-based active ingredients.

The excellent infrastructure and close networking at the Heidelberg Innovation Campus “Health and Life Science Alliance” offer ideal conditions for Munschauer’s research. In particular, the combination of its RNA techniques with the strengths of the Center for Infectious Diseases in microscopy and modern imaging techniques opens up new opportunities for cooperation. Munschauer sees numerous points of contact with other institutions at Heidelberg University and emphasizes the interdisciplinary orientation of his work, which combines modern RNA biology with classical virology.

With his extensive expertise and portfolio of RNA techniques, Munschauer aims to advance the development of new diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. His team brings experience in the synthesis and production of mRNA-based drug candidates, which will serve as the basis for interdisciplinary projects at the Heidelberg site. The close integration of research and potential applications could sustainably improve the treatment of viral diseases and further strengthen Heidelberg as a leading center of virus research.

Further information:

Molecular Virology: Heidelberg University Hospital

Editor: X-Press Journalistenbüro GbR

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