Prof. Dr. Fernão Castro Braga from the UFMG is the new holder of the CAPES Brazil Chair at the University of Münster
Prof. Dr. Fernão Castro Braga, a distinguished professor of Pharmacy at the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG), has been selected as the new holder of the CAPES Brazil Chair at the University of Münster. The Chair will be hosted by the Institute of Virology, in collaboration with Prof. Dr. Stephan Ludwig, a member of the Brazil Centre with established partnerships with Brazilian researchers and institutions.
In Münster, he will drive forward research into the “Investigation of the antiviral and anti-inflammatory activities of natural products and (semi)synthetic compounds against hyperinflammatory viral diseases”, the central theme of the last call (24/2025). Prof. Dr. Braga, a specialist in the fields of pharmacognosy and phytochemistry, investigates bioactive plants and their secondary metabolites with a view to the future development of new active ingredients with anti-inflammatory, hypotensive, cytotoxic and antiviral properties, as well as active ingredients for the treatment of the metabolic diseases, an area in which he has extensive experience. Prof. Dr. Braga will also actively enrich the academic activities at the University of Münster. With his expertise and work in the area of natural substances and semi-synthetic derivatives he will provide valuable inputs to the research.
“My research stay at the University of Münster is expected to advance the investigation of natural products and semisynthetic derivatives with broad-spectrum antiviral and immunomodulatory activities, while providing deeper insights into their mechanisms of action. The knowledge gained through this collaboration will support the identification and validation of promising candidates for the development of innovative antiviral therapies.” (Prof. Dr. Braga)
The start of his activities at the University of Münster is scheduled for the first half of November, marking the beginning of a period of intense scientific exchange. This collaboration between the University of Münster and UFMG in the field of medicine lays the foundations for new research projects and strengthens cooperation in the fields of pharmacy and virology. In addition to his own research, the Chair holder will be able to nominate two early career researchers from Brazil for a research period at doctoral and postdoctoral level. Their scientific activities will significantly expand the exchange of knowledge and connection with various institutes of the university, fostering the academic dialogue and ensuring the longevity of this international scientific collaboration.
The CAPES Brazil Chair was established by CAPES in 2010 and since then has aimed to intensify scientific and academic collaboration between the University of Münster and leading universities and research institutions in Brazil. The objective is to promote the establishment and expansion of academic contacts and networks in defined thematic areas. Furthermore, the Chair contributes to strengthening the profile of outstanding Brazilian scientists in Germany.
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