Technology Network Organoid Engineering Lab
Precision Organoid Engineering for Multi-Organ Interaction Studies (POEM)
Human stem cell-derived 3D in vitro model systems have emerged as powerful tools across biology and medicine, enabling the study of development, physiology, and disease in experimentally accessible settings. Recent advances in organoid culture, microphysiological systems, and organ-on-a-chip technologies have substantially increased the complexity and applicability of these models across disciplines.
The Organoid Engineering Lab at Heidelberg University contributes to the Precision Organoid Engineering for Multi-Organ Interaction Studies (POEM) network and is dedicated to the development of next-generation 3D in vitro model systems and their integration into collaborative research projects.
About the Lab
The Organoid Engineering Lab develops human stem cell-derived organoid and advanced 3D in vitro model systems for basic and translational research. The lab’s mission is twofold. First, we work collaboratively with research groups across Heidelberg University to co-develop in vitro approaches and integrate them into existing experimental frameworks, drawing on interdisciplinary expertise spanning biology, engineering, physics, materials science, and computational research. Second, we pursue an independent research program focused on the development of more complex, scalable, and high-throughput 3D in vitro systems with improved fidelity to human organ function and dysfunction in disease.
Current research activities include models of the nervous, cardiovascular, and gastrointestinal systems, with platforms that are adaptable to additional tissues and organ systems. By bringing together disciplines that have traditionally operated separately, the Organoid Engineering Lab serves as a scientific nexus for the development and broad adoption of human-relevant 3D in vitro model systems across Heidelberg University.
Contact
For researchers interested in initiating collaborative projects, inquiries may be directed to Dr. Ramsey Najm (Scientific Head), including a brief description of the proposed project.
Dr. Ramsey Najm
Scientific Head | Organoid Engineering Lab
Innovation Lab
Speyerer Str. 4
69115 Heidelberg
Office: E4.13
Lab: F4.08 – F4.12
Funding Resources
We greatly acknowledge funding by the Carl-Zeiss-Stiftung.
Co-Funded by the Federal Ministry of Research, Technology, and Space (BMFTR) and the Ministry of Science Baden-Württemberg within the framework of the Excellence Strategy of the Federal and State Governments.
