ACME Mission

Bacterial and viral infections are major causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide (WHO 2020). The rise in multidrug-resistant bacteria, particularly intracellular pathogens such as Listeria, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Salmonella, is exacerbated by the limited availability of effective antibiotics. At the same time, an aging population with weakened immune systems leads to a higher risk of severe infections. Antiviral therapies are often effective only in the early stages of infection and cannot eliminate persistent viruses such as herpesviruses.

Severe infections occur when the immune system does not respond quickly, strongly, or specifically enough. New drugs that modulate the immune response could treat not only infections but also cancer and autoimmune diseases more effectively. ACME therefore focuses on manipulating intracellular defense mechanisms as a key strategy against intracellular pathogens.

ACME is a structured, collaborative research consortium comprising 10 experienced principal investigators and 3 early-career researchers, with women accounting for over 45% of the team. The PIs’ expertise ranges from CRISPR/Cas screenings and single-cell multi-omics to signal transduction and post-translational modifications, as well as advanced infection models (organoids, mouse models) and big data analysis using AI.

The goal is to train internationally competitive early-career researchers: doctoral students and medical students are prepared for careers in science, industry, and clinical-scientific practice. The four-year program combines excellent laboratory training (90%) with structured training modules on scientific knowledge, technologies, soft skills, career planning, and intercultural collaboration. Key areas of focus include intracellular infections, modern methods, and AI-supported data analysis. In addition to practical research, weekly lab meetings, specialized seminars, workshops, and retreats are held. ACME thus creates a solid foundation for pioneering therapeutic approaches in infection biology and beyond.