Jorn Coers

Bacterial infections remain one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. The Coers lab seeks to understand fundamental aspects of the innate immune response to bacterial pathogens as well as the corresponding immune evasion strategies evolved by human pathogens undermining immunity in order to establish infections. Defining innate immunity and microbial counter-immunity pathways on a molecular level will provide roadmaps for the rational design of novel antimicrobial therapies and improved vaccine strategies against pathogens such as the enteric pathogen Shigella or the sexually transmitted pathogen Chlamydia.

In addition to making major inroads in the fields of innate immunity, inflammation and bacterial pathogenesis, our second, but equally important goal, is to train the next generation of scientists in an environment that prioritizes excellence, research integrity, teamwork and inclusiveness. We strive to create an environment of mutual respect, openness, collegiality, integrity and, last but not least, fun, which promotes and awards curiosity and fosters collaborations. We strongly believe that diversity promotes excellence.