Jordi Rodon Aldrufeu
Charité – Germany
Can you share a little about yourself and what kind of research you are involved in?
I am a researcher at the Drosten Lab, Institute of Virology, Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin, where I study (re-)emerging zoonotic pathogens with pandemic potential. My work is especially dedicated to MERS-CoV and other coronaviruses, focusing on the phenotypic characterization of novel viral variants from the field to help improve pandemic preparedness. My research is highly devoted to the ‘One Health’ initiative.
Hoe does your research fit into the bigger picture of Durable?
Changes in pathogen phenotype are a critical yet underexplored factor in pandemic forecasting. By understanding the intrinsic features of high-risk animal and human coronaviruses, including their pathogenesis and mechanisms of immune evasion, we can better integrate emerging phenotypic traits into pandemic preparedness strategies.
What motivates you to be part of DURABLE?
My research goals align closely with the mission of the DURABLE consortium — to enhance awareness of pandemic potential and strengthen response strategies against emerging zoonotic pathogens. DURABLE provides a platform to translate my research outcomes into practice by delivering actionable insights and pathogen risk assessments to EU-level pandemic preparedness networks and other public health authorities.
What do you expect to accomplish in the upcoming years within your own institute and by being connected to Durable?
Little is known about how MERS-CoV has evolved during the COVID-19 pandemic and how its variants have changed over time. In the coming years, one of the goals of my research at the Institute of Virology is to elucidate these changes by linking patterns observed in the field with laboratory phenotypes
What do you expect from Durable in the upcoming near future?
By integrating my work with DURABLE, I will ensure that these insights inform EU-level risk assessments and preparedness strategies, translating research into tangible actions that strengthen pandemic preparedness. At the same time, DURABLE provides a unique platform to foster collaboration with experts across the EU, grant access to shared data and risk assessment tools, and enable my research outcomes to have real-world public health impact, ensuring that scientific discoveries directly support coordinated preparedness and response against emerging zoonotic threats.