Volker Heussler

Prof. Dr. Volker Heussler is a full Professor in Molecular Parasitology and Cell Biology at the Institute of Cell Biology, University of Bern, and has served as Acting Director of the Institute since 2014. His research focuses on the pre-blood stages of malaria parasites, particularly the liver stage of Plasmodium, aiming to develop live attenuated vaccines and drug-based interventions. He employs advanced microscopy and transgenic parasite models to study parasite-host interactions.

• PhD in Parasitology (1993, University of Bern)
• Postdoctoral work at University of Bern, ILRI Nairobi, and Bernhard-Nocht-Institute.

Research Interests revolve around molecular mechanisms of Plasmodium liver stage proliferation, autophagy interactions, and organelle segregation. His lab investigates how host autophagy proteins are subverted, how dormant liver stages persist, and how parasites egress from hepatocytes. Techniques include confocal microscopy, live cell imaging, and CRISPR genomics.

Recent publication trends emphasize host-pathogen molecular interactions, autophagy modulation, and innovative imaging methods. His team includes key collaborators like Dr. Reto Caldelari and Dr. Jacqueline Schmuckli. Funding sources include Swiss National Science Foundation (SNF), Novartis, and EU Framework 7.

Advising includes mentoring PhD students Kodzo Atchou and Melanie Schmid. His work contributes to global malaria eradication efforts through the MalarX consortium and Indo-Swiss Joint Research Programme. The lab’s multidisciplinary approach bridges cellular biology, computational modeling, and translational medicine.