Prof. Dr Bernhard Manger has received the 2026 Ku Kußmaul Medal from the German Society for Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology (DGRh). The award was presented at the German Congress of Rheumatology in Leipzig in recognition of his outstanding contribution to rheumatology in Germany. Dr Florian Schuch (Rheumatologische Schwerpunktpraxis Erlangen Dres. Kleinert/ Rapp/Schuch/Wendler) delivered the laudatory address.
Knowledge that benefits patients
Bernhard Manger’s work has always been driven by the conviction that research, clinical medicine and education belong together. Scientific knowledge reaches its full value when it helps solve complex clinical problems, improves patient care and is passed on to others.
Connecting research, medicine and education
For decades, Bernhard Manger helped shape the close relationship between immunological research and excellent patient care at Universitätsklinikum Erlangen. His scientific work, with an h-index of more than 66, places him among Germany’s leading rheumatologists. At the same time, his extensive clinical knowledge enabled him to find solutions for cases that initially appeared impossible.
His impact also extends across generations. More than 20 years ago, he co-founded the Rheuma Update, now one of the most established rheumatology education events in the German-speaking world. Through specialist courses and numerous other teaching formats, he made complex immunology and rheumatology understandable, engaging and memorable for medical students and physicians.
A lasting contribution to rheumatology
In his laudatory address, Dr Florian Schuch highlighted Bernhard Manger’s enthusiasm, sharp intellect, curiosity and openness to unconventional ideas. Despite his many achievements, he has always remained modest and approachable.
The DGRh awards the Kußmaul Medal to individuals whose life’s work has decisively shaped rheumatology in Germany. Bernhard Manger’s contribution spans scientific research, outstanding patient care, professional education and the encouragement of future generations.
We warmly congratulate Prof. Dr Bernhard Manger on this highly deserved distinction.