Prof. Malek Bajbouj Becomes Einstein Professor and Director of Psychiatry – ECN Member Advances Neuroscientific Innovation
As of April 1, 2025, Professor Malek Bajbouj has taken on the role of Director of the Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy at Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Mitte. He has also been awarded an Einstein Professorship, supported by €580,000 in funding from the Einstein Foundation Berlin over the next two years.
In addition to his new leadership role, Bajbouj will oversee research and teaching as Director of the Psychiatric University Clinic at St. Hedwig Hospital. His work focuses on prevention, digitalization, precision medicine, and global health—key areas he aims to advance further in his new position.
“Psychiatric disorders are among the most significant public health challenges,” says Bajbouj. “Currently, patients with mental illnesses have a life expectancy eight years shorter than the general population. The clinic already has outstanding teams testing innovative interventions and modern care models. Together, we will develop a clinical and scientific focus that places prevention at its core.”
Research Focus: Neurobiology Meets Healthcare
Bajbouj also emphasizes precision medicine, aiming to combine neurobiological insights with accessible care systems: “One of my priorities is to integrate neurobiologically informed methods with low-threshold healthcare solutions to provide more tailored treatments for patients with mental illnesses.”
The psychiatrist is equally committed to expanding digital and AI-based mental health solutions: “The predominantly analog way we still deliver healthcare no longer aligns with the expectations or habits of our patients. At the Department of Psychiatry, I plan to collaborate with public and private partners to enhance digital offerings that strengthen health literacy, promote preventive approaches, and make therapeutic interventions more accessible—especially for those with severe or chronic conditions.”
Bajbouj also plans to modernize workplace structures: “Mental health issues account for 16% of all sick days in Germany. As a university clinic for psychiatry, it’s essential that we explore ways to create healthier working environments. This includes developing agile structures, protected time models, and opportunities for young professionals to take on leadership roles earlier in their careers.”
The Einstein Foundation supports Berlin’s universities and Charité in recruiting or retaining top scientists through Einstein Professorships. These positions help secure leading experts in their fields for Berlin’s academic landscape.
Source: Press Release Einstein Foundation & Press Release Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin
Links: Klinik für Psychiatrie und Psychotherapie | CCM
Photo: Prof. Malek Bajbouj. © Charité | Mariia Streltsova