24.04.2026
20 Years of TBnet: Two decades of unparalleled cross-border collaboration in tuberculosis research and education
Tuberculosis is the leading cause of death by a single micro-organism. On April 21st 2026, leading tuberculosis researchers from across Europe and beyond gathered at the Max von Pettenkofer Institute in Munich to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Tuberculosis Network European Trials group (TBnet), marking two decades of sustained scientific collaboration, innovation, and education in the fight against tuberculosis. The anniversary meeting highlighted TBnet’s unique role as Europe’s largest independent academic TB research network.
Since its founding, TBnet has built an internationally recognised platform for multicentre clinical research addressing urgent challenges in tuberculosis prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Its collaborative studies have informed international guidelines, shaped policy, and improved patient care across Europe and globally. Over the past two decades, TBnet investigators have produced a substantial body of high-impact publications in leading journals, reflecting the network’s scientific reach and influence.
Equally central to TBnet’s mission is its commitment to training the next generation of tuberculosis experts. The annual TBnet Academy provides an intensive forum for students, clinicians, and early-career researchers to exchange ideas, receive mentorship from international experts, and develop research skills in epidemiology, diagnostics, treatment, and clinical trial design. Complementing this programme, TBnet webinars and workshops offer year-round opportunities for continuing education and scientific exchange across borders.
Speakers at the Munich anniversary meeting reflected on the network’s achievements and future priorities, including strengthening global partnerships and accelerating research into drug-resistant TB and post-TB health outcomes. Over 20 years, TBnet has established a model of sustainable international cooperation of tuberculosis research across Europe.
TBnet’s collaborative approach demonstrates how coordinated academic networks can drive innovation, improve clinical practice, and support the global effort lower the burden of tuberculosis.
Contact
Anne Oleischeck
Klinische Infektiologie
Forschungszentrum Borstel, Leibniz Lungenzentrum
Parkallee 35, 23845 Borstel
T +49 4537 / 188-7080
clange@fz-borstel.de