Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology Campuses

The Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology, also known as the Hans Knöll Institute (HKI), in Jena is a leading research institution focused on the study of natural products and infection biology. While it is primarily a research institute rather than a traditional university, it offers specialized training and educational programs in collaboration with academic partners such as Friedrich Schiller University Jena. The institute provides opportunities for doctoral and postdoctoral research, as well as structured training programs for students in the life sciences.

Key areas of focus include microbiology, chemical biology, and infection biology, with an emphasis on understanding the molecular mechanisms of pathogens and developing novel therapeutic approaches using natural products. The institute is renowned for its interdisciplinary approach, combining biology, chemistry, and bioinformatics to address global health challenges.

• Microbiology and Mycology: Research and training on fungal pathogens and their interactions with hosts.
• Chemical Biology: Programs exploring the chemistry of natural products for drug discovery.
• Infection Biology: Studies on host-pathogen interactions and immune responses.
• Bioinformatics and Systems Biology: Computational approaches to analyze biological data.
• Doctoral Training Programs: Structured PhD programs in collaboration with the Jena School for Microbial Communication (JSMC).

Students and researchers at HKI benefit from state-of-the-art facilities and a collaborative environment, working alongside international experts in the field. The institute plays a critical role in advancing knowledge of infectious diseases and developing innovative solutions through natural product research. Its programs are designed for individuals passionate about contributing to scientific breakthroughs in health and medicine.