BSL3 laboratory in Wageningen - Vector-borne viruses
Good to know
In short- Safe research on vector-borne viruses
- Research on mosquitoes, midges and ticks
- Expertise in virus transmission and infection risks
The BSL3 laboratory in Wageningen is unique in the Netherlands. It meets the second-highest biosafety standard (biosafety level 3) and is designed for controlled research on viruses transmitted by mosquitoes, midges or ticks (vectors). Companies, knowledge institutes and public authorities use it to develop knowledge and solutions against emerging infection risks.
What can you do at the Biosafety Level 3 Laboratory?
Do you want to conduct research on virus transmission by mosquitoes? In the Biosafety Level 3 laboratory, companies and research institutes can carry out experiments with viruses that may only be studied under strict biosafety regulations.
The facility is specifically equipped for infection studies with mosquitoes, midges or ticks in combination with various virus isolates. Research can focus on vector competence, transmission routes and co-infections with viruses such as Zika, West Nile, chikungunya and tick-borne encephalitis.
The lab is equipped with biosafety cabinets, temperature-controlled incubators and specially designed rooms for infecting mosquitoes and collecting mosquito saliva. All activities take place under strictly controlled conditions that comply with national and international biosafety guidelines. Our experts can provide support with setting up and conducting experiments if required.
Examples of possible applications:
- Assessing the vector competence of native or exotic mosquitoes
- Researching virus transmission under realistic conditions
- Testing antiviral compounds or vaccine prototypes at early development stages
- Studying virus–virus interactions in co-infections
- Evaluating infection risks for humans or animals
Who is the BSL3 Laboratory for?
This facility is available to companies, knowledge institutes and public authorities working on infectious diseases, virus monitoring or the risks of vector-borne diseases. It provides a safe and reliable environment to study pathogenic viruses transmitted by mosquitoes, midges or ticks.
“Thanks to this facility, we can safely work with viruses that may be transmitted to humans or animals by mosquitoes. This knowledge is essential for effective monitoring and prevention.”
- Gorben Pijlman
- Virologist
Why choose this facility?
We offer:
- First BSL3 laboratory in the Netherlands dedicated to vector-borne viruses
- Fully equipped for vector research with live mosquitoes, midges and ticks in combination with viruses
- Compliance with international BSL3 biosafety standards for high-risk research
- Scientific expertise at the interface of virology and entomology
- Experience with international research projects such as ZIKAlliance and VECTORIE
Questions about this facility?
Do you have any questions? Please contact us for more information or collaboration opportunities.
prof.dr.ir. GP (Gorben) Pijlman
Virologist