Dr. Manuel Krone takes over management of the central laboratory at UKW!

Dr. Manuel Krone takes over management of the central laboratory at UKW!

An exciting innovation has emerged at the Würzburg University Hospital (UKW): Dr. Manuel Krone has taken over the interim management of the central laboratory since July 1, 2025. He follows Dr. Udo Steigerwald, who retired after 24 years at the head of the laboratory. Under Steigerwald's direction, the central laboratory was significantly modernized and is now one of the best-equipped facilities of its kind in Germany. [UKW].

Manuel Krone, born in 1988, is a specialist in laboratory medicine as well as microbiology, virology and infection epidemiology. Before his current position, he was deputy head of the Central Facility for Hospital Hygiene and Antimicrobial Stewardship at UKW. His qualifications support his in-depth knowledge; Among other things, he studied computer science and completed a master's degree in public health in Sweden. In 2023, Krone completed his habilitation in Würzburg and last year received the bioMérieux diagnostics award at the DGHM annual meeting in Berlin, which further demonstrates his expertise in the field. Med Universität Würzburg highlights that this prize is endowed with 2,500 euros and that Krone was awarded for his research on protection against meningococcal and SARS-CoV-2 infections.

Innovations in the central laboratory

The modernizations that were initiated under Steigerwald not only improved the infrastructure of the central laboratory, but also increased the efficiency of analysis. A specially developed, fully automated sample archive now allows quick analyzes without having to take samples again, which significantly reduces the burden on patients. In addition, the amount of blood required for analysis has been significantly reduced, which increases comfort for patients.

The central laboratory is also responsible for the care of patients with coagulation disorders and offers comprehensive advice on hemostaseological issues. In this role, Dr. Krone to intensify interdisciplinary collaboration with the clinical departments, with particular attention being paid to immunological issues in connection with vaccinations.

The importance of laboratory medicine

The role of laboratory medicine in healthcare should not be underestimated. It provides essential data that is essential for the diagnosis and progression of diseases. This is particularly evident at Robert Bosch Hospital, where the Department of Laboratory Medicine and Hospital Hygiene works in the background to ensure precise diagnoses and effective hygiene measures. This department carries out routine blood tests, analyzes multi-resistant pathogens such as MRSA, and tests the resistance of bacteria to antibiotics. Robert Bosch Hospital shows that virus tests, blood group analyzes and collections are also available around the clock to minimize the risk of infection in hospitals.

With his impressive career and clear focus on innovation, Dr. Manuel Krone will certainly have a strong influence on the future of the central laboratory at UKW. His expertise and commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration promise an exciting time for laboratory medicine in Würzburg and beyond.