Services

The facility offers a broad range of virological assays to study virus biology, infection, and antiviral responses under BSL‑3 conditions. These include virus propagation and titration (e.g. plaque or TCID50 assays), viral replication and entry assays, neutralization and antiviral efficacy studies, and reporter-based assays (such as luciferase or fluorescent readouts).

Experiments can be performed in diverse cell culture models, including established cell lines, primary human cells, and advanced culture systems. These combined capabilities enable comprehensive analysis of virus–host interactions and therapeutic development.

The facility supports a wide range of bacteriological assays under BSL‑3 conditions, enabling detailed study of high-risk bacterial pathogens. Capabilities include bacterial culture and quantification, antimicrobial susceptibility testing, host-pathogen interaction assays, and immunological readouts. Experiments can be performed using diverse in vitro models, such as established cell lines and primary immune cells. In addition, the facility offers expertise in assay development, optimization, and validation, ensuring reliable and reproducible results. These capabilities support research on pathogenesis, diagnostics, and the development of new antimicrobial strategies.

The facility provides advanced support for BSL‑3/DM-III animal studies related to viruses, enabling controlled investigation of infectious diseases in relevant in vivo systems. In vivo infection models in rodents are used to study pathogenesis, immune responses, and intervention strategies. These models are complemented by expertise in experimental design, infection routes, and sampling strategies. Studies can include evaluation of vaccines, antiviral therapies, and host-pathogen interactions. Dedicated infrastructure and trained personnel ensure safe handling, precise execution, and high-quality, reproducible results.

The facility offers the possibility to train both internal and external users to work independently in the BSL‑3 laboratories. Training follows a structured program covering biosafety procedures, laboratory techniques, and regulatory requirements, ensuring that all users can operate safely and competently in a high-containment environment.

Due to the strict safety standards, the training is intensive and may take several months to complete. Before entering the program, candidates are required to have substantial hands-on experience with infectious agents at the BSL‑2/ML‑II level. In addition, enrollment in the training program is subject to prior approval by the Biosafety Officer. This approach ensures that independently operating users maintain the highest standards of safety, quality, and reproducibility.