Institut für Mikrobiologie der Bundeswehr

The Bundeswehr Institute of Microbiology (InstMikroBioBw) is the scientific centre of competence for biological medical defence of the Bundeswehr and represents the German Armed Forces in research, teaching and training. It provides state-of-the-art procedures for identification and verification of an attack with biological agents, conducts specialized training courses for medical personnel and participates in the development of concepts and strategies. Its scientific focus is on research and development as well as studies on the pathogenesis, recognition, treatment and prevention of health disorders which may be caused by exposure to biological agents.

The InstMikroBioBw operates the National Reference Laboratories for Plague, Brucellosis and Tick-borne Encephalitis Virus. In 2012 the Central Diagnostics Division of the InstMikroBioBw achieved DIN EN ISO 15189 accreditation, one of the most rigorous international standards for medical diagnostics by which a microbiological laboratory can be assessed. Through this achievement, InstMikroBioBw is able to provide validated laboratory methods for detection of biological warfare agents’ related parameters, setting the benchmark for other laboratories engaged in the national biodefense effort.

The InstMikroBioBw provides authoritative scientific and medical information and advice on both planning and operational responses to biological threats, emerging infections and unusual disease outbreaks. It is part of the German Centre for Infection Research (Deutsches Zentrum für Infektionsforschung – DZIF), an integrated multi-centre structure bringing together selected universities, university hospitals, and non-university research institutes to combine their strong research portfolios and clinical infrastructure.