Oswaldo Cruz Foundation

The Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, commonly Fiocruz) is Brazil’s leading public health research and biomedical institution, based in Rio de Janeiro. It was established in the early 20th century under the direction of physician-scientist Oswaldo Cruz and has developed into a national network for research, public health and health technology.

The foundation combines active research laboratories with historic hospital and institute buildings, archives and public outreach museums. Its programs include infectious disease research, public health policy support and educational activities, and it plays a central role in Brazil’s health research infrastructure.

Fiocruz operates important campus facilities in the Manguinhos neighbourhood of Rio de Janeiro and across Brazil; parts of the complex are open to the public as museums and for guided visits, while research areas remain restricted.

Located in the northern sector of Rio de Janeiro city, the main complex sits in the Manguinhos area and is accessible from urban transport links within the metropolitan area.

• Founding and role: Founded in the early 20th century by physician Oswaldo Cruz, the institution grew into Brazil's leading public health research organization and operates nationally.
• Visitor note: Some museum and outreach facilities are open to visitors, but much of the campus is an active research and public health facility with restricted areas.

What to See #

• Manguinhos campus: Manguinhos campus houses research laboratories, historic buildings and institutional archives that form the core of the foundation's activities in public health and biomedical research.
• Museums and outreach: Casa de Oswaldo Cruz and science outreach museums are part of the foundation's public-facing activities, documenting the history of health interventions and research in Brazil.