Organised by: The European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL)
Speaking this year Hans Clevers - molecular geneticist, cell biologist, stem cell researcher and former President of the Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences - will explore the groundbreaking work that has defined his career – the development of organoids.
This annual event, free and open to the public, celebrates the legacy of Fotis Kafatos, a former EMBL Director General and the Founder and first President of the European Research Council (ERC).
These miniature, lab-grown structures mimic human organs, offering unprecedented opportunities for studying human biology and disease. In his lecture, Clevers will delve into the revolutionary impact of organoids on medical research, particularly in drug testing and personalised medicine, where they serve as humane and accurate models of human tissue.
Clevers's pioneering research began with the discovery of a method to grow intestinal stem cells outside the human body, leading to the creation of "mini-guts". These organoids have since served as a powerful tool for researchers, allowing for safer and more ethical testing of new treatments. Clevers's contributions have not only advanced academic understanding but also sparked significant commercial applications, with several successful spin-off companies emerging from his work.
Reflecting on his role as the speaker at this year's Kafatos Lecture, Clevers said: "It is both a great honour and a pleasure to be invited as the speaker for EMBL’s esteemed Kafatos Lecture this year. Public lectures hold a special place in my heart, offering scientists like me an extraordinary opportunity to effectively communicate our research and scientific knowledge to a wider audience. My aspiration is to ignite curiosity and inspiration in young minds, propelling them towards a future in science."
Visit the event page at EMBL's website to see the full programme, more information about the lecture and Hans Clevers, and the registration form (during the registration process you will attend in person or online.)
The Kafatos Lectures aim to bring groundbreaking and relevant life sciences research to the worldwide public, making it accessible and highlighting its day-to-day societal impact. Whether you’re a high school student, a world-class scientist or someone with a non-scientific background, this lecture is tailored for you. The only requirements are enthusiasm and curiosity.
Organoids provide a safe and ethical system for biological discovery and biomedical testing. Credit: Isabel Romero Calvo/EMBL
