The Leibniz Institute of Virology (LIV)

Through experimental basic research, the institute identifies new possibilities for
improved treatment methods that can be used against known viral diseases such as AIDS,
influenza and hepatitis, but also against emerging infections such as COVID-19, West Nile
and dengue fever. The LIV thus covers a wide range of the world's most relevant viral
pathogens.

History and structure: The Institute was founded in 1948 and, as a foundation under civil
law, is a non-profit, independent research institution that has been part of the Leibniz
Association since 1995. Funding is provided proportionally by the Federal Ministry of Health
(BMG) and the research funding of the federal states, represented by the Ministry of Science,
Research, Equalities and Districts (BWFGB) of the Free and Hanseatic City of Hamburg. A
significant proportion of the budget is also raised through competitive funding procedures,
including funds from government research programs, private foundations and industry.

Research focus and societal mission: As part of the Leibniz Association, the LIV pursues
the mission of conducting research with thematic and national relevance. In accordance with
its foundation purpose, the institute is dedicated to basic and application-oriented research on
human pathogenic viruses that are of current or future importance to public health. The aim is
to develop new therapeutic approaches on the basis of basic experimental research that will
enable improved treatment options for viral infections.

The LIV's research focuses on the most important viral pathogens worldwide, which cause
millions of deaths each year and the majority of infections worldwide. Some of these viruses
are also associated with the development of cancer and serve as models for investigating
fundamental cell biological and virological processes. Basic virological research at the LIV
therefore offers great potential that goes far beyond the understanding of specific diseases.