Two New Collaborative Research Centres for Universität Heidelberg
Heidelberg University has been assigned two new collaborative research centres (CRCs). After getting the green light from the review panels, they were recently approved by the relevant Grants Committee of the German Research Foundation (DFG) at its autumn meeting in Bonn. The two integrated research projects are situated at Heidelberg University’s Centre for Astronomy and the Immune Biology section of the Heidelberg Medical Faculty respectively. They will start work at the beginning of next year. Coordinator of CRC 881 “The Milky Way System” is Prof. Dr. Eva Grebel of the Astronomical Computing Centre. Prof. Dr. Stefan Meuer of the Institute for Immunology and Serology will be performing the same function for CRC 938 “Medium-Specific Control of Immunological Reactivity”.
The research work of CRC 881 revolves around the Milky Way, a typical spiral galaxy and hence a member of the most common class of massive galaxies in the universe. Due not least to its favourable observation position, it is particularly suitable for model-based investigation of astrophysical evolution processes. It is on this basis that the scientists involved in CRC 881 “The Milky Way System” will inquire into the origins and functioning of the Milky Way with a view to clarifying fundamental principles of galaxy formation. To this end they will observe stars as fossil indicators of chemical and dynamic evolution and trace the cosmic cycle of matter. Also involved in the new venture are the Max Planck Institute of Astronomy, the Heidelberg Institute for Theoretical Studies (HITS) and the House of Astronomy.
CRC 938 “Medium-Specific Control of Immunological Reactivity” focuses its research on molecular analysis of immunological processes in various tissues and organs in humans and other model organisms. Of central concern are the functional adaptation processes of immune-competent and highly mobile cells to their location in the body. Knowledge of these reactions will enable scientists to influence immune processes systematically. The research programme encompasses both qualitative and quantitative investigations and can be expected to bear fruit in terms of clinical applications and progress towards personalised medicine. Also involved in the new CRC is the German Cancer Research Centre (DKFZ).
Contact
Prof. Dr. Eva Grebel
Astronomical Computing Centre<
Centre for Astronomy
phone: +49 6221 541810
grebel@ari.uni-heidelberg.de
Prof. Dr. Stefan Meuer
Institute for Immunology and Serology
phone: +49 6221 564000
stefan.meuer@uni-hd.de
Communications and Marketing
Press Office, phone: +49 6221 542311
presse@rektorat.uni-heidelberg.de
