Canada’s Global Nexus for Pandemics and Biological Threats at McMaster University has joined forces with DZIF – The German Center for Infection Research – to advance international efforts to fight pandemics.

Infectious disease expert and lead of Canada’s Global Nexus, Gerry Wright, describes the partnership with DZIF – a network of universities and institutes across Germany – as “game-changing.”

“With DZIF, we have added incredible depth to the world-class research we’re already doing at Canada’s Global Nexus,” he said.

“The ability to tackle the next pandemic – whether that’s from a new virus or a drug-resistant superbug – hinges on the quality and pace of research, but equally on coordination and collaboration internationally.”

Founded ten years ago, DZIF helps coordinate and fund more than 500 scientists, representing 35 universities and institutes across all aspects of infectious disease research, including viruses such as COVID-19.

“We’re very much looking forward to the collaboration with the renowned McMaster University in Canada to promote and intensify scientific exchange on infection research across borders,” said Prof. Dirk Busch, Chairman of the DZIF Board.

McMaster’s President, David Farrar, said DZIF and McMaster University are both heavily invested in pandemic preparedness, recognizing its importance going forward.

“We have seen the serious and disruptive consequences of COVID-19 and how unprepared the world was to respond to this challenge,” said Farrar.

“We know the importance of strong international research collaborations in addressing global issues, and this partnership will ensure we maximize our ability to find efficient and effective solutions to future global health crises.”

DZIF and Canada’s Global Nexus agree there is an immediate need to advance research to tackle the complex and global issue of increasing antibiotic resistance. According to a recent estimate published in Lancet, antibiotic resistance was responsible for 1.27 million deaths in 2019 alone. Experts are calling it the silently emerging pandemic.

About the DZIF
At the German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), about 500 scientists and physicians from 35 institutions throughout Germany are jointly developing new methods for the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of infectious diseases. Major goal is ‘translational research:’ the rapid and effective implementation of basic research findings into clinical practice. Thus, the DZIF paves the way for the development of new vaccines, diagnostics and medications against infections. For more information, please visit: www.dzif.de.