Biography:

Johanna Apfel-Starke is the Chief Scientific Information Officer (CSIO) at Hannover Medical School (Medizinische Hochschule Hannover, MHH), where she leads the institution's strategy for scientific data, research informatics, and digital innovation. She works at the intersection of biomedical research, clinical practice, and information technology, helping to strengthen the use of data-driven approaches across research and healthcare.

As CSIO, Dr. Apfel-Starke oversees initiatives that enhance research data management, digital infrastructure, interoperability, and the application of artificial intelligence and advanced analytics in biomedical and clinical research. She collaborates with scientists, clinicians, data specialists, and external partners to develop secure and scalable information systems that support translational research, precision medicine, and evidence-based healthcare.

Her expertise spans scientific information management, research informatics, digital transformation, health data governance, and the responsible use of AI in medical research. She is committed to promoting high standards of data quality, reproducibility, and collaboration while ensuring compliance with ethical, legal, and regulatory requirements for health data.