Uni Ghent – Strengthening our biomaterials & tissue-engineering community: recap of International Workshop

On 4–5 September 2025, the Doctoral Schools Workshop “Biomaterials and Tissue Engineering” brought together an inspiring mix of international experts, early-career researchers, and PhD students for two days of scientific exchange and community-building. The event created a dynamic forum to explore current advances in biomaterials and tissue engineering, while also highlighting the pathways that link innovative academic research to real-world applications. 

The programme featured a distinguished line-up of invited speakers whose expertise spans biofabrication, polymer science, regenerative medicine, scaffold design, and translational bioengineering. We were honored to welcome Michiya Matsusaki (Osaka University), Benjamin Nottelet (Université de Montpellier), Michael Monaghan (Trinity College Dublin), Anja Lena Thiebes (RWTH Aachen University), Cécile Échalier (Université de Montpellier) and Aleksandr Ovsianikov (TU Wien). Their lectures provided deep insights into emerging techniques, material innovations, and the challenges and opportunities involved in moving technology from the laboratory to clinical or industrial settings. 

Throughout the workshop, participants engaged in a rich scientific programme that seamlessly combined research presentations, interactive discussions, and training activities. The first day provided a broad scientific overview, complemented by insights into application and translational efforts from Uni Ghent spin-off companies 4Tissue, BIO INX and Hafnolox. This was followed by a guided writing session, during which participants were encouraged to sharpen their ideas and enhance the clarity and structure of their project concepts. On the second day, PhD candidates took centre stage during the “Pitch-your-PhD” session, where they presented their research to peers and experts. This session fostered constructive feedback and allowed young scientists to practice communicating the core of their work in a concise and compelling way. The event continued with a hands-on workshop focused on science communication, underscoring the importance of outreach, public engagement, and a clear digital presence in modern research careers. 

The workshop atmosphere was characterised by lively conversations, constructive exchanges, and genuine enthusiasm. Beyond the formal presentations, the event offered ample time for networking, creating new connections, and strengthening collaborations within the biomaterials and tissue engineering community. Participants repeatedly highlighted how valuable it was to meet colleagues from different backgrounds and to engage in conversations that bridged disciplines, approaches, and perspectives. 

Reflecting on the event, we express sincere gratitude to all invited speakers for sharing their expertise and vision. Their contributions not only showcased the breadth of innovation taking place internationally but also emphasized the translational impact that biomaterials research can achieve. We are equally grateful to all participating PhD researchers, whose energy and curiosity brought additional depth and vibrancy to the discussions. 

A special word of appreciation goes to Dr. Nele Pien and Marguerite Meeremans, whose excellent organization ensured that the workshop ran smoothly from start to finish. We also gratefully acknowledge the valuable support of the Uni Ghent Doctoral Schools office and the Flemish Government. Events like this one play an essential role in strengthening our scientific community. They create a shared space for learning, exchange, and inspiration, helping us build bridges between disciplines and between fundamental research and their practical applications. The 2025 edition of the Biomaterials and Tissue Engineering workshop clearly demonstrated the importance of bringing researchers together — to spark new ideas, develop collaborations, and reinforce a collective commitment to progress and towards innovation. 

We thank everyone who contributed their knowledge, time, and enthusiasm. Together, we continue shaping a strong and interconnected community dedicated to advancing the field of biomaterials and tissue engineering.