University Medicine Magdeburg (UMMD) gains a world-leading neurobiologist as a research partner in Prof. Dr. Ted Abel. The internationally highly respected scientist was a student of the Nobel Prize winners in Medicine Eric Kandel (2000) and Tim Hunt (2001) and is one of the most distinguished researchers in the field of molecular neuroscience.

From 1 May 2026, Prof. Abel will lead the strategic development of the Neurosciences and Brain Health division as a sub-department of the University Clinic for Psychiatry and Psychotherapy Magdeburg.

With his research into the molecular basis of neuropsychiatric disorders and numerous publications in renowned journals such as Nature, Science and Cell, he brings globally recognised expertise to Magdeburg. His new position opens up the opportunity to translate these pioneering research findings specifically into patient care and thus to further establish University Medicine Magdeburg as a beacon of innovative, translationally oriented medicine.

"With Prof. Ted Abel, we have an internationally leading expert in neurobiological and psychiatric research available to us as a collaboration partner. Working with him and our American partners opens up new perspectives for students, researchers and physicians," says Prof. Dr. med. Thomas Nickl-Jockschat, Director of the Clinic.

Photo: Prof. Dr. Ted Abel. Photo: University of Iowa 2025

Prof. Abel is currently the Roy J. Carver Director of the Iowa Neuroscience Institute at the University of Iowa. He is also Co-Director of the Hawkeye Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center, a member of the National Academy of Medicine and a Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science. His research into the molecular mechanisms of learning, memory and their disorders in neuropsychiatric illnesses has been published in leading journals and contributes significantly to the understanding of autism, schizophrenia and intellectual developmental disorders.

As early as March 2026, the Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the University of Iowa. In doing so, the university is further expanding its international relations and strengthening its role as a globally visible location for cutting-edge neuroscience research. The agreement lays the foundation for joint research projects, the exchange of researchers, teachers and students, and cooperation at conferences, seminars and other academic formats.

With Prof. Abel and the deepened partnership with the University of Iowa, University Medicine Magdeburg sends a clear signal for internationalisation, scientific excellence and the transfer of research findings into practice. The aim is to further establish the UMMD as a beacon of innovative, translationally oriented patient care.