Welcome to the Parasitology Unit at the Centre for Infectious Diseases
Parasitology is a science at the heart of clinical medicine, epidemiology, immunology, molecular biology and biochemistry.
It deals with some of the most important infectious diseases of mankind.
Parasitology has the potential to help us understand questions regarding the complexity of life and the interactions between different species.
Parasitology may provide the tools to alleviate the suffering of millions of people stricken by parasites.
Prof. Michael Lanzer, Ph. D.
Current Highlights (for further info see our News section)
World Mosquito Day
(20 August)
World Mosquito Day commemorates a discovery made by the British doctor Sir Ronald Ross in 1897, who discovered that female mosquitoes can transmit malaria between humans. Shortly after his discovery, Ross himself determined that 20 August should be celebrated as World Mosquito Day in future. Each year, it presents us with an opportunity to raise awareness of the dangers posed by mosquito-borne diseases and the ongoing efforts to combat the world’s deadliest creature.
Academic Lunch Break
(6 May- 19 July 2024)
15-minute specialist lectures, held away from the lecture theatre in the unique atmosphere of St Peter's Church, entertaining, informative and, above all, easy to understand, followed by a Q&A session. In 2024, the Health + Life Science Alliance Heidelberg Mannheim provides insights into current cutting-edge research in the life sciences, the treatment of human diseases and the scientific basis for new therapies.
The events take place Monday to Friday (except public holidays) from 1.00 pm to 1.30 pm in Heidelberg's Peterskirche, Plöck 70.
Please note: on 7 June, our group leader Markus Ganter gave a lecture on "The unusual way of life of the malaria parasite", which is also available online on YouTube.
BioMalPar XX
(21-23 May 2024, EMBL, Heidelberg)
The conference series brings malaria researchers from around the world to present and share recent ground-breaking findings on fundamental malaria research in an integrated and highly collaborative environment. As the BioMalPar Conference marked its 20th anniversary, the organizers took a moment to reflect on the critical mission of understanding the biology of the Plasmodium parasite, its interactions with hosts and vectors, and the urgent need to develop effective intervention strategies. This year, the conference focussed on enhancing the research community by forging new connections.