CiViA uses cutting-edge technologies and methods to (1) identify novel molecules involved in the antiviral response, (2) unravel their mode of action, and (3) characterize their physiological importance in host defense and disease pathogenesis. This involves highly interactive and interdisciplinary approaches often involving several groups in the center and national and international collaborators.
In addition, the CiViA research program integrates a philosophical approach to science, and hence aims to interrogate the experimental data from a conceptual point of view, with the goal to challenge the existing concepts and paradigms in immunology.
From the perspective of societal benefit, one central goal for CiViA is to uncover new understanding of viral diseases, and to take advantage of this knowledge to promote the development of new and improved diagnostics, treatments, and prophylaxis.