The Institute of Tropical Medicine has currently five science departments that each coordinate several research units. This composition can change – as it has in recent years – based on a shift in research priorities or the needs of society. For the ITM is a dynamic institution, in the frontlines of research in tropical medicine and worldwide healthcare, and we want to maintain that position. Since divisions are always more or less artificial, we have several active interdepartmental working groups devoted to themes that are on the agenda of several departments. They increase critical mass and prevent wasting resources.
The Department of Microbiology strives to expand our knowledge of tuberculosis, sexually transmitted infections, HIV and related disorders, and harness that knowledge in the fight against them. Our research is largely focused on the control of these diseases in developing countries.
The Department of Parasitology studies parasitic illnesses in humans and ensures that the results are communicated and applied. It also helps developing countries strengthen their scientific capacities in this field.
The chief objective of the Department of Public Health is to contribute to the development of fair and sustainable healthcare systems in the South.
The Department conducts research on patient-related clinical and epidemiological aspects of tropical illnesses, including HIV/AIDS and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).
The Department of Animal Health studies tropical livestock diseases and diseases that jump from animals to humans (zoonoses).