The struggle against infectious diseases requires cutting-edge basic research on lesser known and/or dangerous viruses and bacteria. Therefore, in 1999, Fondation Mérieux built the Jean Mérieux BSL-4 Laboratory in Lyon, thanks to a donation from Jean Mérieux's family.
This laboratory is a research and study centre with the most dangerous class 4 pathogens (BSL-4). It preserves the researchers against all the risks of infections and ensures a total protection of the environment. Less than 10 BSL-4 laboratories currently exists in the world, the majority being located in the United States.
Since 2004, the laboratory is run by INSERM although it is still owned by Fondation Mérieux.
