15th DGP Young Parasitologists Course 2025
Thanks for taking part!
Report on 15th Summer School for Young Parasitologists, Giessen.
By now a firmly established ritual in the German parasitology scene, this course once again set out to unite post-graduate students under the noble banner of “come for the parasites, stay for the networking.” The idea: to explore the wonderfully weird spectrum of bugs and beasts that parasitology has to offer while connecting the next generation of parasite enthusiasts.
This year, 18 brave students from both national and international research groups answered the call. Over the course of five days (24–28.08), they fearlessly tested themselves for Toxoplasma (with a dramatic ~30% positivity rate—statistically reassuring or alarming, depending on your perspective) and got literally hands-on experience with a menagerie of intra- and extracellular parasites in the anatomy hall.
A diverse lineup of Giessen’s parasitology heroes (and a few special guests) gave lectures and practical sessions on their pathogens of choice—because everyone deserves their moment in the spotlight, even worms and protozoa. The students, in turn, presented their own graduate research, sparking lively discussions with peers and experts alike.
We owe huge thanks to our Giessen and external colleagues—Dr. Verena von Bülow, PD Paul Burda, Jana Dammers, Prof. Dr. Ross Douglas, Prof. Dr. Freddy Frischknecht, Prof. Dr. Christoph Grevelding, PD Simone Häberlein, Kerstin Kaletsch, Prof. Dr. Philipp Olias, Georgette Stovall, and several other dedicated staff members—without whose time and support this whole adventure would not have been possible. And, of course, special thanks to the DGP for their generous financial support—because let’s be honest, without them the social evenings might not have been nearly as fun.
Keep your eyes open for the next short course, planned for 2027!
Jude Przyborski
JLU Giessen
Pictures:
Next course planned for 2027, watch this space!
Feel free to contact me if you have any questions!
About the DGP YP Course
Started in 2005, the course is intended to bring together young Parasitologists from all disciplines and generate a forum for exchange of ideas and concepts.
We invite leading experts who will discuss their research topics with you in their comprehensive seminars. Take advantage of this opportunity and discuss your thoughts, projects and questions with them. All of them will be delighted to assist you in every possible manner.
What is not included in the program may well be an important part of the course, i.e. the dinner and pub visits at night. They’ll be our reward for an intense program.
Criteria for selection
Although aimed primarily at PhD students, we occasionally accept Master students if their topic is parasitology-related. Student Membership of the DGP (€25/year) is required (https://dgparasitologie.de/dgp-mitglied-werden). If you are a member of the DGP, please indicate this on your application form. If not, then also please note this and we will collect all new applications and forward them to the DGP.
Course fees
The course fee includes accommodation and some meals. Travel arrangements should be made individually.
About the DGP
The DGP represents all persons with a scientific interest in parasitology who are active in the fields of zoology and botany, medicine, in particular tropical medicine, microbiology and hygiene, veterinary medicine, plant protection and pest control. For further information, please see our Homepage (https://dgparasitologie.de).