The Department of Microbiology advances research in infectious diseases, immunology, and biotechnology, with a focus on vaccine development, diagnostic innovation, and pandemic preparedness. Recent achievements include the production of a high-yield recombinant Hepatitis B vaccine candidate in Pichia pastoris, the development of rapid antibody assays for Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever virus (CCHFV), and the characterization of the viral nucleocapsid protein as a promising target for both diagnostics and vaccine design. Comparative studies with Hazara virus have further established safe surrogate models to accelerate CCHFV research.
In addition to pathogen-specific studies, the department contributes to global health security through its role in the EU-funded VACCELERATE network, ranking WHO-priority pathogens by pandemic potential. It also pioneers biomedical innovations, such as UVC-LED protective masks and improved diagnostic methods in clinical microbiology, while providing critical insights into immune responses to SARS-CoV-2. By combining fundamental virology with translational applications, the department develops next-generation vaccines, diagnostics, and public health tools, while training the next generation of scientists.
