The field of health research at the Helmholtz Association is well prepared to pursue the interdisciplinary approaches required to achieve these goals, by working in alliances with universities and other research institutions. Translational research has been strengthened through the Helmholtz health centres’ strategic partnerships (particularly with medical schools), the establishment of translational centres, and exemplary alliances with industrial partners. Due to the establishment of the German Centres of Health Research, the quality of these interactions is systematically deepened leading to a new dimension of collaboration. The National Cohort, which was initiated by the Helmholtz Association, will bring together representatives of diverse disciplines in a longterm study designed to shed light on the interplay between environmental factors, genetics and lifestyle in the development of diseases.