Hellenic Pasteur Institute
The Hellenic Pasteur Institute (HPI) is Greece’s oldest and one of the most distinguished biomedical research institutions, with a legacy dating back to its establishment in 1920. It operates as a non-profit legal entity under the supervision of the Ministry of Development and Investments and the Ministry of Health, with governance guided by national research legislation and a bilateral agreement with the Pasteur Institute in Paris. HPI is an active member of the International Network of Pasteur Institutes, fostering scientific collaboration with research institutes across Europe, Africa, Asia and the Americas.
The Institute is dedicated to advancing biomedical science and public health through internationally recognised research, innovative diagnostics and translational applications that improve human and animal health. Its guiding principle — rooted in the scientific philosophy of Louis Pasteur — emphasises both fundamental discovery and its real-world application for the benefit of society.
Mission and Strategic Priorities
HPI’s mission centers on the prevention, detection and treatment of disease through:
- Basic and applied biomedical research, with a focus on infectious diseases, immunology and neuroscience.
- Public health services, mainly epidemic surveillance, outbreak investigation and high-performance diagnostic testing;
- Development and quality control of vaccines and biological agents that address national and global health needs;
- Education and training of scientists, clinicians and public health professionals;
- Responsible research and innovation, promoting science communication and public engagement.
The Institute’s research infrastructure and expert teams contribute to cutting-edge scientific advances, transforming laboratory discoveries into innovative diagnostic methods, preventive strategies, and therapeutic solutions that address major public health challenges.
Role in Public Health and Innovation
A core strength of HPI is its strategic contribution to public health, especially in monitoring and responding to infectious threats. The Institute plays a key role in national efforts to control epidemics and pandemics, offering reference diagnostic services and expertise in partnership with WHO, ECDC and other global health bodies.
RRF-Funded New Buildings Project: Centre of Excellence in Pathogen Research
As part of the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (Greece 2.0) and with substantial support from the Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF), the Hellenic Pasteur Institute is undergoing a major infrastructure upgrade to expand its research capacity and scientific impact. HPI has secured significant RRF funding — approximately €25.2 million — to modernise and extend its research facilities and establish a new Centre of Excellence for the Research of Emerging Infectious Diseases.
This investment supports the construction of two new state-of-the-art research buildings equipped with advanced laboratories of high biosecurity (BSL-3), specialised robotic systems for safe handling of high-risk pathogens, and areas designed for interdisciplinary scientific collaboration. Purpose-built spaces will also include modern laboratory areas, training and seminar rooms, offices, and facilities to support scientific interaction and education.
The project emphasises energy efficiency and sustainability, with design considerations targeting reduced environmental footprint and zero carbon dioxide emissions, reflecting Greece’s commitments to green development.
By enhancing the Institute’s infrastructure, this RRF-funded project will strengthen Greece’s national capabilities in epidemic intelligence, infectious disease, attract scientific talent, and foster international research collaboration. The planned facilities are expected to be completed in the summer of 2026, supporting the Institute’s role as a national and international hub for biomedical research and innovation.
International Collaboration
The research groups of the Hellenic Pasteur Institute actively participate in European research consortia and establish strategic collaborations with research teams and academic institutions abroad, contributing to the advancement of scientific knowledge and international research cooperation. As a member of the International Pasteur Network, the Hellenic Pasteur Institute actively collaborates with Research Centres and Public Health bodies worldwide, exchanging expertise and participating in joint research programs. These global partnerships enhance its capacity to address emerging health challenges and contribute to international scientific progress.