Institute of Parasitology
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MISSION STATEMENT
We perform research on human and animal parasites at the organismal, cellular and molecular levels. Our mission is to acquire, advance and disseminate knowledge of the biology and host relationships of parasitic protist and related eukaryotic microorganisms, helminths, and arthropods. We pursue this goal through research, education and other activities at both the national and international levels. The results obtained have contributed to the prevention and control of human and animal parasitic diseases and have an impact on fisheries and agriculture.
GENERAL INFORMATION
A wide spectrum of methods, from morphology, electron microscopy and phylogenetics, to molecular biology, functional genomics and proteomics, is used to study different aspects of biology and host-parasite relationships of model groups of parasites. Annual scientific output counts more than 100 papers in renowned international journals, including Nature, Science, Cell and PNAS. The Institute of Parasitology maintains extensive collections of type and voucher materials (about 3000 species of helminths, parasitic arthropods and protists), cultures of parasitic protists, cell lines, and laboratory colonies of ticks and mosquitoes. Two laboratories have been established jointly with the the Faculty of Science of the University of South Bohemia in České Budějovice, namely the Laboratory of Molecular
Biology of Vectors and Pathogens (head L. Grubhoffer) and the Laboratory of Molecular Taxonomy (head M. Oborník) to facilitate scientific cooperation and participation of students in research performed at the Institute. The Institute also offers opportunities for postdoctoral and residency training in parasitology, organises international training courses and its researchers participate as lecturers in parasitology courses abroad.
