Angelika Vallbracht was a pioneer in her field. In 1989, she was appointed deputy director of the Department of Medical Virology at the Institute of Hygiene in Tübingen, and in 1990, she was appointed C4 Professor of Virology in Bremen, which she held until 2014. There, she founded the Department of Virology, now headed by Professor Dotzauer.

Her scientific work, especially in the field of how viral infections cause diseases and how the body's own defense system reacts to them, has brought new and important insights. She contributed significantly to the virology and immunology of the hepatitis A virus, to research into the influenza A virus, the hepatitis C virus, and HIV. Her work was invaluable and contributed significantly to the scientific understanding of these complex viruses.

In addition, Professor Valbracht was an inspirational teacher and mentor. Her inspiring and enthusiastic way of giving lectures motivated and influenced many of her students. Introducing teachers, student teachers, and students to genetic engineering and a responsible approach to it has always been important to her. She was heavily involved in academic self-government and voluntary work, serving on various academic advisory boards and commissions. Her colleagues valued her not only for her professional expertise, but also for her openness, steadfastness, fairness, and generosity.