Swiss TPH

The Ecosystem Health Sciences unit covers a wide array of basic and applied research and disease control interventions in the nexus of innovation, validation and application. The main emphasis is placed on the so-called neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) that are rampant in mainly rural settings of the developing world. We primarily focus on NTDs that are cause by parasitic worms, namely schistosomiasis, soil-transmitted helminthiases and food-borne trematodiases.

To enhance our understanding of host-parasite-gut microbial interactions, the laboratory work of the unit -- in collaboration with Imperial College London -- primarily focuses on metabolic profiling. Epidemiological studies investigate how demographic, ecological and socioeconomic determinants influence the frequency and transmission dynamics of NTDs. We investigate the issue of multiparasitism, which -- although it is the norm rather than the exception in developing country settings -- is often neglected. Finally, we explore the scope and limits of health impact and risk assessment methodologies within the frame of large infrastructure development projects.

Broad network of collaboration with a common goal

Research and NTD control activities are facilitated by a broad network of partners within Switzerland, leading research and teaching institutions in Europe, the United States and the developing world. Additionally, the unit pursues work within its mandate as a WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Capacity-Building in Environmental and Tropical Public Health.
    Collaborating with the Medical Department and Diagnostic Centre at Swiss TPH, the unit benefits from the resident and rich scientific environment and is closely interwoven with other units, namely Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Health Social Sciences, Helminth Drug Development, Parasite Chemotherapy and Molecular Diagnostics.