Robert Koch Medal in Gold

Heinz Schaller, emeritus professor of Molecular Biology and Microbiology at the Center for Molecular Biology of the University of Heidelberg, is being awarded the Robert Koch Medal in Gold. In his extensively prize-winning research, Schaller discovered essential molecular foundations of hepatitis B virus infection, thereby promoting the development of the first genetically engineered vaccine against hepatitis B. His work on the structure of the virus particle and vaccine induction still forms the basis of modern virology and immunology. Already in the mid-1970s, Schaller pioneered advanced methods of virus analysis and gene mapping, which are still used in research laboratories worldwide today. He published over 200 original papers, supervised countless dissertations, and has shaped generations of young virologists through his passionate teaching.

His commitment beyond the university led in 1985 to the co-founding of Biogen, one of the world’s first and most successful biotechnology companies. There, he advanced the translation of molecular insights into innovative therapies, laying the foundations for the modern biopharmaceutical industry. At the same time, he served as founding director at the ZMBH Heidelberg and shaped the institute into an international center of excellence in research. Numerous honors, including the Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz Prize and honorary doctorates from several universities, recognize his outstanding achievements. The Robert Koch Medal in Gold honors Heinz Schaller’s groundbreaking contributions to virology research, his support for young scientists, and his role in bridging basic research and biotechnology.