Initiatives & Networks

Future You: Art Meets Research – Pregnancy and Lifelong Health

How do early processes during pregnancy shape the lifelong health of mother and child?

The interdisciplinary project “Future You” combines cutting-edge biomedical research with artistic creativity. Together with the artist collective 3 Hamburger Frauen (www.3hamburgerfrauen.de), we develop new formats of science communication that make complex scientific relationships emotionally and visually accessible. Our goal is to strengthen the dialogue between science and society and raise awareness of the immense importance of pregnancy for lifelong health.

Funded by the Hamburg Research Academy and the Claussen-Simon-Stiftung.

When Viruses Strike: Maternal–Placental Dialogue and Fetal Outcomes

Viral infections during pregnancy challenge the delicate balance between maternal immune defense and fetal tolerance.

The international scoping workshop “When Viruses Strike” brings together experts from immunology, virology, reproductive medicine, patient advocacy, and technology development. Together, we discuss the effects of viral infections on maternal-placental communication and child health. The aim is to connect knowledge across disciplinary boundaries, identify research gaps, and develop innovative strategies for prevention, diagnostics, and therapy.

Funded by the Volkswagen Foundation.