Wir überwinden Grenzen

Prof. Dr. Heinz Wiendl wants to focus on neuroimmunology and the diagnosis and treatment of inflammatory processes in the brain

From Münsterland to Breisgau: Prof. Dr. Heinz Wiendl has been the new Medical Director of the Department of Neurology and Neuroscience at the Medical Center - University of Freiburg since October 1. He succeeds Prof. Dr. Cornelius Weiller, who headed the clinic for 19 years.

After studying medicine at the University of Erlangen, Wiendl's professional career took him to Duke University (USA) and the University of Basel for research stays and advanced training. He completed his specialist training and habilitation in Tübingen, where he deepened his expertise in the field of neurology and neuroimmunology.

This was followed by a period at the University Hospital of Würzburg, where he headed the Clinical Research Group for Multiple Sclerosis and Neuroimmunology. Most recently, he was Director of the Department of Neurology and Head of the Institute for Translational Neurology at the University of Münster. He was also spokesman for several important research networks, including the Collaborative Research Center "TR 128 Multiple Sclerosis" and spokesman for the Center Council of the Body&Brain Institute Münster.

Better diagnosing and treating neurological diseases

Wiendl has long been researching the role of inflammatory processes in neurological and psychiatric diseases. His research also focuses on the development and validation of biomarkers and molecular patterns that help to diagnose neurological diseases more precisely and treat them in a more targeted manner. Another important part of his research is the field of neurological immunotherapies for numerous diseases such as multiple sclerosis.

Establishing a center for precision neurology

"The location's focus on excellence and the potential to make an important contribution to neuromedicine were decisive factors in my move to Freiburg," says Wiendl. With its strong neuroscientific and immunological environment and the interdisciplinary Neurocenter, Freiburg offers excellent conditions, especially with a focus on neuroinflammation.

In future, Wiendl would like to establish a center for precision neurology that combines state-of-the-art diagnostic and therapeutic approaches with a clear focus on neuroimmunology and neuroinflammation. "The opportunity to establish a center for precision neurology and neurological immunotherapy here in Freiburg is extremely appealing to me," Wiendl continues.

He would also like to strengthen interdisciplinary cooperation, as neurology in many respects represents a hinge function at the interface of many disciplines. Among other things, between basic sciences and clinical medicine with a focus on neurology. The Department of Neurology and Neuroscience at the Medical Center - University of Freiburg will thus continue to focus on excellent research and clinical care.

Caption: Prof. Dr. Heinz Wiendl has headed the Department of Neurology and Neuroscience at the Medical Center - University of Freiburg since the beginning of October
Image source: Medical Center - University of Freiburg