From September 2 to 6, 2024, the 3R-Center Tübingen , in collaboration with the EUROoCS Teaching & Training Working Group, hosted the second edition of the Organ-on-Chip Summer School. Tübingen became a hotspot for international experts in the field of Organ-on-Chip (OoC) and Microphysiological Systems, alongside enthusiastic researchers eager to learn these new technologies.
Over the course of five days, participants attended lectures in the mornings and practical workshops in the afternoons. This year’s program covered a wide range of topics, including stem cell-based in vitro models, microstructuring of OoC systems, biomaterials, Good Cell Culture Practice (GCCP), online analysis with sensors, imaging, omics analyses, transepithelial/transendothelial electrical resistance (TEER) measurements, microelectrode arrays (MEA), in silico modeling, regulatory requirements, and immunology. Various social events and evening activities provided opportunities for exchange and networking within the participants and lecturers.
Day 1
The week started with exciting lectures on the topics of microstructuring by Maria Tenje (Uppsala University) and stem cell technology by Lisa-Marie Erlandsdotter (University of Tübingen). The lectures were followed by afternoon practical workshops on microstructuring with Thomas E. Winkler (KTH Royal Institute of Technology), biomaterials with Lisa Rebers (Bosch), and a live broadcast from the cell culture lab at the NMI Natural and Medical Sciences Institute on induced pluripotent stem cell culture (iPSC) by Lisa-Marie Erlandsdotter. The day ended with a welcome event featuring engaging short presentations by all participants, accompanied by delicious local Swabian specialties.
The second day began with an insightful lecture on biomaterials by Lisa Rebers, followed by a talk on sensor technology for OoC applications by Torsten Mayr (Graz University of Technology & PyroScience GmbH). Afterward, Kevin Achberger (University of Tübingen) gave an in-depth talk on the development and application of organoid models. The afternoon featured practical workshops on the use of microelectrode arrays (MEAs) by Multi Channel Systems GmbH and optical sensors by Torsten Mayr, as well as a continuation of the sessions on microstructuring and biomaterials. The day concluded with a lively Summer School Dinner at a local brewery by the riverside, featuring excellent food and valuable networking opportunities.
Day 3
The Wednesday program kicked off with a lecture on microfluidics dynamics by Andries van der Meer (Utrecht University and president of EUROoCS), followed by Tânia Capelôa (JRC EURL ECVAM), who discussed Good Cell Culture Practice (GCCP) and reporting standards. Julia Marzi (NMI Natural and Medical Sciences Institute) wrapped up the lecture series with a talk on advanced imaging techniques and Raman spectroscopy. In the afternoon, participants enjoyed an iconic and signature Tübingen experience with a punt ride on the Neckar River – a well-deserved break and an chance to enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
Day 4
Thursday began with an engaging lecture on spectroscopy and omics analyses by Steven Ray Wilson (University of Oslo), followed by Costanza Rovida (Center for Alternatives to Animal Testing (CAAT) Europe), who highlighted key regulatory aspects in her double lecture. In the afternoon, the practical sessions on TEER measurements, led by Silvia Mihăilă (Utrecht University), took place, along with the continuation of the microstructuring and stem cell workshops, focusing on fluidic testing and microscopy. The day ended with a TATAbox game night, where participants enjoyed delicious Lebanese cuisine and celebrated the week’s achievements.
Day 5
The final lectures of the week started on Friday with a lecture on the human immune system by Melanie Märklin (University of Tübingen), followed by an hybrid lecture with practical elements on in-silico modeling, led by Behnam Amiri (ESQlabs GmbH), which provided participants with insights into computational approaches for OoC research. With the eventful week ending, participants participants left equipped with new skills, knowledge, and valuable contacts to advance their work in this exciting field of research.
Travel Award
A special highlight was the recognition of Angela Ramirez Rosales, who was awarded the Organ-on-Chip Summer School 2024 Travel Award, sponsored by the France 2030 Programme de Recherche Organes et Organoïdes sur puces (MED-OOC), for her outstanding passion in advancing research in the field of microphysiological systems.
After an intensive week filled with lectures, hands-on workshops, and collaborative activities with lively exchange and networking, we are thrilled that the participants were able to take away so much new knowledge, ideas, inspiration, and contacts. We sincerely thank the many experts for their dedication and excellent, enriching contributions and our sponsors for their support! We also want to express our gratitude to the participants for their great interest and engagement. A special thanks goes to the entire team of the EUROoCS Teaching & Training Working Group, as well as the many helping hands. We look back on this valuable and inspiring week with great joy!
Organ-on-Chip Summer School 2025
After the conclusion of this eventful week, we are already looking forward to the Summer School 2025! It will take place from June 15–19, 2025, in Tübingen.
