News from the Faculty of Medicine in Bochum
Here you will find the latest news and press releases from the Faculty of Medicine at Ruhr University Bochum.
For older press releases, please take a look at our archive. Do you have questions about our faculty or would you like to report on us? Here you will find our press contact.
News
More and more highly multi-resistant pathogens
The proportion of bacteria that are also resistant to reserve antibiotics continues to rise. Experts recommend intensified monitoring.
Achim Dilling appointed new Chancellor of Ruhr-Universität Bochum
The 51-year-old business economist comes from the University of Passau. He will become Chancellor of Ruhr-Universität Bochum from January 2026.
"There is a risk of irreversible long-term damage"
The consequences of bronchitis in infancy can be serious. This is shown in a study by the Bochum University Children's Hospital.
RUB turns 60 and everyone is celebrating
On June 18, 2025, Ruhr-Universität Bochum will celebrate its 60th anniversary. There will be plenty to see and everyone is cordially invited.
New Funding Phase of the Network University Medicine NUM 3.0
The Network University Medicine (NUM) will enter its third funding phase starting July 1, 2025. The Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) will continue to support the nationwide collaboration of all 37 university hospitals in Germany for another five years. The latest press release provides details on the continuation of the network in funding phase 3.0.
Xenofon Baraliakos awarded honorary doctorate
In March 2025, Prof. Dr. Xenofon Baraliakos, Medical Director of the Rheumatology Center Ruhr Area and Chair of Internal Medicine and Rheumatology at Ruhr University, was awarded the honorary doctorate in medicine by the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens for his lifetime achievements. As the youngest doctor in the university's history to receive this honor, and the first in rheumatology in twelve years, Baraliakos views the award as a significant recognition of his work over the past two decades.
Alanna Ebigbo specializes in endoscopy
Since February 12, 2025, Prof. Dr. Alanna Ebigbo has been leading the Department of Internal Medicine at St. Josef Hospital in Bochum. The renowned gastroenterologist focuses on innovative treatment options, particularly through the expanded use of endoscopy – not only for diagnosis but also for therapy. Ebigbo aims to increasingly perform cancer surgeries endoscopically using state-of-the-art technology, thereby promoting organ preservation. Additionally, he is conducting extensive research on the use of artificial intelligence in the diagnosis and treatment of gastrointestinal diseases to further improve the precision of cancer diagnoses.
Tobias Ruck values the integration of clinical care and research.
In February 2025, Prof. Dr. Tobias Ruck took over the leadership of the Department of Neurology at Bergmannsheil in Bochum. With his expertise in neuromuscular disorders, neurorehabilitation, and pain therapy, he aims to further strengthen the integration of clinical care and research, enhancing the clinic's neuroscientific profile. Prior to this, Ruck was Deputy Director of the Department of Neurology at the University Hospital Düsseldorf.
Jens Theysohn heads the Radiology Department at Bergmannsheil
As of December 1, 2024, Prof. Dr. Jens Theysohn is the new Director of the Institute for Diagnostic Radiology, Interventional Radiology and Nuclear Medicine at BG University Hospital Bergmannsheil. Previously serving as Senior Consultant at the University Hospital Essen, the 49-year-old brings extensive expertise in interventional radiology, musculoskeletal imaging, and neuroradiology. Theysohn values the broad clinical spectrum at Bergmannsheil and aims to further develop radiological services in close collaboration with the hospital’s various departments.
Ina Otte wants a medicine that includes everyone
Professor Dr. Ina Otte is committed to a form of medicine that takes all perspectives into account – enabling fairer and more effective treatments. Since January 2025, she has been contributing her expertise as a sociologist and medical ethicist to healthcare research at Ruhr University Bochum. Her goal: medical research that reflects the reality of patients – not just an average.
Prof. Dr. Niklas Thon Takes the Helm of the Department of Neurosurgery
As of January 2025, Prof. Dr. Niklas Thon has assumed the directorship of the Department of Neurosurgery at Knappschaft Kliniken Universitätsklinikum Bochum. Renowned for his expertise, Thon focuses on innovative surgical techniques and patient-centered care. His research priorities include neuro-oncology, precision surgery, and advanced imaging. Thon aims to foster close collaboration between clinical practice, research, and education to advance neurosurgery in Bochum.
Florian Willecke researches and treats vascular diseases
As of February 2025, Dr. Florian Willecke will take on the professorship in Angiology at HDZ NRW. As an expert in vascular diseases, he researches new therapies for lipid metabolism disorders and peripheral arterial disease. His work bridges basic research and clinical practice to improve the treatment of vascular conditions, particularly in diabetic and heart patients.