ERINHA is pleased to welcome the Biomedical Primate Research Centre (BPRC) as the newest member of its growing network. This addition further strengthens ERINHA’s capacity to support cutting-edge research on high-consequence pathogens and reinforces its role as Europe’s key infrastructure for pandemic preparedness and response. It marks a significant step forward in expanding ERINHA’s scientific capabilities, particularly in translational research and advanced disease modelling.
A leading centre for biomedical research
Based in the Netherlands, the Biomedical Primate Research Centre is one of Europe’s foremost institutes dedicated to understanding and combating serious infectious diseases. Its work focuses on understanding disease mechanisms and supporting the development of new treatments for conditions such as AIDS, malaria, tuberculosis, and influenza. It played a pivotal role in the COVID-19 pandemic, as candidate vaccines were tested there as part of essential preclinical research and development.
With more than a hundred specialists—from veterinarians and geneticists to behavioural scientists—BPRC brings together a wide range of expertise to tackle complex biomedical challenges. Its research spans multiple disciplines, including virology, immunology, parasitology, and neuroscience, reflecting a comprehensive approach to human health.
The centre uses non-human primate models, which provide invaluable insights into disease mechanisms due to their close biological similarity to humans. BPRC operates to maximise animal well-being and minimise suffering, going beyond national and European guidelines. At the same time, it is strongly committed to developing alternative and innovative approaches to minimize the use of animals in research.
A valuable contribution to ERINHA’s mission
By joining ERINHA, BPRC brings unique expertise in in vivo models, immunopathology, and translational research, as well as a strong practical and ethical framework for experimental science. Its participation will enhance ERINHA’s capacity to support preclinical research and deepen understanding of disease mechanisms, ultimately contributing to the development of effective medical countermeasures and pandemic-prone pathogens.
Merel Langelaar, Director of BPRC, said: “Joining ERINHA allows us to contribute our expertise to a broader international effort to better understand and combat high-risk pathogens. By working together across borders and disciplines, in a One Health approach, we can accelerate the development of effective interventions that ultimately benefit patients worldwide.”
Strengthening a collaborative research ecosystem
The addition of BPRC reflects ERINHA’s ongoing commitment to expanding its network and reinforcing its scientific capabilities. By integrating complementary expertise and infrastructures, ERINHA continues to provide the research community with access to an ever-broader portfolio of world-class facilities and knowledge.
Jonathan Ewbank, ERINHA’s Director General, said, “This new Member is especially welcome, not only because of what it materially brings to the infrastructure, but also because of what it represents: a clear commitment to continue vital pandemic preparedness research.”
In an increasingly interconnected world, where infectious diseases can spread rapidly across regions, collaboration is essential. With BPRC’s joining, ERINHA takes another step toward building a more robust, coordinated, and resilient research ecosystem—one that is better equipped to respond to current and future global health challenges.