“Submitting these proposals is an important step for Leipzig University,” says Rector Professor Eva Inés Obergfell. “They are the result of intensive, interdisciplinary collaboration between our scientists and reflect the excellent research environment that we offer here in Leipzig. My thanks are due to all the people who have been part of this extraordinary effort. The two spokespersons, together with their teams – and the full support of the University’s administration and the Rectorate – have already demonstrated that they are conducting world-class research and have now submitted two proposals that address the most important issues of our time.
Leipzig Center of Metabolism: Personalised research approach for metabolic diseases
The Leipzig Center of Metabolism, or LeiCeM for short, will be a new research centre focusing on the study of metabolic diseases such as obesity, diabetes mellitus and fatty liver. These conditions can have serious health consequences including heart disease, stroke and dementia. Led by Professor Michael Stumvoll of Leipzig University’s Faculty of Medicine and the University of Leipzig Medical Center, LeiCeM will pursue an innovative personalised research approach. The focus is on evolutionary and genetic influences, the importance of early life phases, sex-specific differences, and the interactions between brain and body.
Breathing Nature: Considering climate change and biodiversity together
The second proposal, Breathing Nature, aims to explore the complex interactions between biodiversity loss and climate change. Led by Professor Johannes Quaas of Leipzig University’s Faculty of Physics and Earth System Sciences, the researchers will develop innovative approaches to finding solutions for protecting biodiversity and mitigating the effects of climate change. There will also be a special focus on human behaviour in these crises and the development of social solutions.
What happens next
Today’s deadline for the submission of full proposals marks the start of the next phase of the competition. The review of the proposals is expected to be completed by mid-February 2025. The funding decision on the future Clusters of Excellence will be made on 22 May 2025. If its proposals are approved, Leipzig University is preparing to continue on its path to submitting a proposal under the Universities of Excellence funding line.