The BNI is Germany’s National Reference Centre for Tropical Infections and has 20 years experience in the operation of a BSL 4 laboratory. Its research activities are internationally recognised. The BNI recently was one of three laboratories within the WHO network which identified the new SARS coronavirus independently from each other (Drosten et al. 2003, N Engl J Med. 348:1967-76. Epub Apr 10). The institute offers a unique interdisciplinary surrounding with work on tropical viruses, vector-transmitted diseases, immunology, cell biology and pathophysiology. Moreover, a clinical department in Hamburg and a well-equipped recently built collaborative research centre at the University of Kumasi in Ghana offer opportunities for patient-related studies. The clinical department is one of five German treatment centres for VHF.

The BNI has received planning permission for a 5000 m2 building extension in order to quantitatively and qualitatively enlarge the research facilities. Key features are:

• Two separately operated BSL 4 laboratories with 5+2 working spaces (total 190 m2 );
• four BSL3 laboratories (total of 170 m2), including a 60 m2 BSL3 insectary for studies on vector-transmitted diseases such as West Nile Fever;
• animal breeding, including strains of African rodents known as reservoirs for hemorrhagic fever viruses such as Lassa and Hantaan;

In Februar 2005, demolition of the old animal house will start in order to clear the building site. The building shell is expected to be completed in 2006.

Drawing: Architekten Kister - Scheithauer - Gross, Köln

Outward design of the extension building (left) and its relation to the main building of BNI (right)
The extension is slightly removed from the main building and is mainly accessed by means of a two-storey bridge which connects the old building to the new building on the first and second floor (above ground level). As a transparent steel and glass construction, this bridge has a subtle appearance to allow for the view of the gable of the old building. The extension of the historic main building dating from 1914 and its prominent position above the jetty at Hamburg Port, make particular demands on the design of the building. Following on from the surrounding buildings, the walls of the building are covered with dark clinker. As this is a free-standing building with a sculptural aspect, the clinker material of the walls continues onto the roof area. Apart from uniformly covering the exterior surfaces on all sides with clinker, an exceptional feature of the design are the windows. All the windows on the upper floors are constructed in two parts, comprising one large window, which allows for views and daylight, and an additional light panel above.

Drawing: Architekten Kister - Scheithauer - Gross, Köln

Section through the seven floors of the extension building
The lower basement level is designed for animal breeding and features individually disinfectable stables and climate control systems to achieve a specific pathogen free environment (SPF). The upper basement level is for animal experimentation. The ground floor is designed to host the BSL 4 and BSL 3 units for virological research. The 1st floor is designed for molecular virology studies with BSL 2 laboratories and offices. The 2nd and 3rd floors will host parasitological research and each comprise a BSL 3 laboratory, BSL 2 laboratories, offices and cold rooms. Special constructions are fitted for a microscopy unit, the BSL 3 insectary and a video conference room located on the 3rd floor. Central technical installations are located on the 4th floor and the upper basement level.

Last update 02/2005