Estonian University of Life Sciences strengthens its position in One Health with a new research centre

The One Health approach links human, animal, and environmental health as a whole, and the university already has strong scientific and practical expertise in this field. “Through this new centre, we can offer solutions to complex health and environmental challenges of today,” said Professor Alireza Fazeli, Head of the One Health Centre. He added that the centre provides a platform to consolidate existing knowledge more systematically and to enable higher-impact research and development both in Estonia and internationally.

The centre was established as an interdisciplinary unit, combining expertise from the institutes of veterinary medicine and animal sciences, agricultural and environmental sciences, and forestry and engineering. The university’s long-standing experience in research and development, together with its strong international collaboration network, provides a solid foundation for advancing One Health principles. Ongoing cooperation projects already include partners such as the University of Helsinki, the University of Oulu, the University of Bologna, the University of Milan, the University of Valencia, and the University of Tartu.

According to Toomas Tiirats, Director of the Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, the centre focuses on One Health, bioresilience, and the preservation and restoration of ecosystems. “In an increasingly uncertain world, we are also developing research and innovation in the prevention of and response to chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear threats,” he said. A related discussion will take place at the Opinion Festival in Paide on 7 August at 18:30, titled: “Is Estonia ready for the next crisis that does not come with tanks? Chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear risks.”

In addition to research, the centre will actively contribute to the development of teaching, continuing education, and the application of science-based solutions in society. It also aims to expand international research collaboration and attract more research funding to Estonia. The centre is led by a director, and its highest decision-making body is the council.

The establishment of the centre also supports the university’s strategic plan for 2026–2035, where One Health is defined as a strategic priority.