BOTS Summer School
Biomaterials have emerged as important tools for recreating the complex microenvironment of tumors in vitro. Special attention will be done to breast tissue and tumoroids. By mimicking key biological, chemical and physical cues of native tissues, these engineered systems enable the development of organoids/tumoroids - three-dimensional models that better reflect tumor architecture, heterogeneity, and cell–matrix interactions than traditional 2D cultures. This summer school will explore how biomaterials can be designed and applied to study tumor progression, drug response, and cell behavior in controlled yet physiologically relevant settings. Participants will gain insights into cutting-edge approaches bridging materials science, cell biology, and oncology to advance cancer research and therapeutic development.
Objectives
- Understand tumor microenvironment biology
- Explore the bio-inspired perspective for the development of biomaterials
- Master the develop of biomaterials that mimic the native tissues and the tumor microenvironment
- Design and grow organoids/tumoroids (3D cancer models)
- Apply models to drug screening and personalized medicine
The summer school is structured as a 4-days intensive course combining theory, project design, and social activities. The official language of the summer school is English, with the exception of the public lecture.
Target Audience
Master’s & PhD students and early-career Researchers in:
- Cancer Biology
- Biomedical Engineering
- Materials Science
