Dirk Lanzerath

Prof. Dr. Dirk Lanzerath is an Adjunct Professor (Apl.) of Philosophy at the University of Bonn's Institute of Philosophy and an Honorary Professor for 'Ethics, especially Scientific Ethics' at Bonn Rhein-Sieg University of Applied Sciences. Since 2002, he has served as Managing Director of the German Reference Center for Ethics in the Life Sciences (DRZE), a central institution of the University of Bonn. He obtained his habilitation (2013) and doctorate (1998) in Philosophy from the University of Bonn.

Lanzerath's research spans bioethics, medical ethics, environmental philosophy, and the ethics of emerging technologies. His work critically examines normative frameworks in life sciences, addressing topics like biodiversity conservation, synthetic biology, AI in medicine, and pandemic research ethics. He emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches linking philosophy with scientific practice.

His recent publications (2020-2025) demonstrate a strong focus on ethical challenges in digital health, climate justice, and biotechnological innovation. Trends include critical analyses of AI governance, planetary health ethics, and reforms in research ethics committees during crises.

• Order of Gratitude of the Order of Malta

He leads multiple committees including the Ethics Committee of the Johannes Rau Research Association (since 2024) and serves on the Board of the European Embassy of Good Science. As Secretary General of EUREC (European Network of Research Ethics Committees), he shapes continental research governance frameworks.