Max Kellner

Dr. Max Kellner is a molecular biologist and research group leader at the Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research (HZI) since April 1, 2025. He established the VICO (Virus-Host Coevolution) junior research group, focusing on molecular interactions between viruses and their hosts, particularly evolutionary mechanisms of innate immunity and viral resilience in mammals. His work spans CRISPR-based diagnostics, organoid culture systems, and zoonotic virus research.

• Bachelor's degree at University of Vienna
• Master's thesis at Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard
• Doctoral studies at University of Cambridge and University of Vienna

His research integrates evolutionary biology and molecular virology to explore disease resilience in bats, developing organoid models for studying infections like Marburg virus, MERS-CoV, and SARS-CoV-2. Key methodologies include RT-LAMP assays for rapid diagnostics and CRISPR-based amplification techniques. Recent publications highlight advancements in pathogen detection in resource-limited settings and epithelial antiviral responses.

Notable collaborations include work with local scientists in Ghana to improve rural virus diagnostics and partnerships with institutions such as the Broad Institute, MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, and IMBA.