More about the
Ubbo Emmius Foundation
Programmes
At the heart of the Health Technology Research and Innovation Cluster (HTRIC) lies a bold ambition: to extend healthy years for all through pioneering innovations in healthcare. With the support of the Ubbo Emmius Foundation (UEF), HTRIC is investing in a new generation of fundamental research that connects groundbreaking science directly to clinical practice. This collaboration strengthens the unique link between engineers and clinicians in Groningen, the only Dutch city where a university medical centre and a faculty of science and engineering operate side by side. Together with our academic, clinical and industrial partners, we are developing technologies that will shape the future of healthcare—from the hospital to the home. Our four strategic research lines address some of the most pressing medical challenges and are centred on one simple question: how can we diagnose and treat patients more accurately, effectively, and personally?
1. Timely diagnosis and patient-specific treatment of sepsis
Sepsis is a life-threatening condition caused by an overactive immune response to infection. It is difficult to diagnose early and accurately, yet delays in treatment can be fatal. This research line aims to develop a diagnostic tool that uses AI and personalised biomarker profiles to detect sepsis at an early stage. By combining patient data with fundamental insights into immune responses and free radicals, we strive to tailor treatments to each individual. The result: faster, more effective interventions that save lives.
prof. dr. Geert van den Bogaart
prof. dr. Romana Schirhagl
prof. dr. Philip Elsinga
prof. dr. Ben Feringa
2. Medical imaging of bacterial infections
Bacterial infections are increasingly difficult to treat and localise. This research line focuses on developing new imaging technologies that can pinpoint the exact location and nature of infections in the body. We aim to create advanced tracers that selectively bind to bacteria, enabling early and precise diagnosis. Combining imaging modalities will provide clinicians with critical information for treatment planning, ultimately leading to better patient outcomes and reduced antibiotic resistance.
3. Targeted cancer therapy at the right time and place
Cancer therapies are often toxic and imprecise. This line of research seeks to design treatments that can be activated by light deep within the body, delivering drugs exactly where and when they are needed. Using cutting-edge photopharmacology, nanotechnology, and imaging, researchers will develop innovative therapies that minimize side effects and improve treatment outcomes. The integration of AI allows for real-time analysis and personalized response tracking.
prof. dr. Wiktor Szymanski
prof. dr. Anna Salvati
prof. dr. Patrick van Rijn
prof. dr. Gosia Wlodarczyk-Biegun
4. Minimally Invasive Implants Using Smart Soft Materials
Many current implants require invasive procedures. This research line develops intelligent soft materials that can be inserted through small openings and later stiffen or change shape inside the body. By responding to external stimuli like heat or magnetic fields, these materials could revolutionise implant technology, making procedures safer and more patient-friendly. Future applications include soft robotic systems tailored to specific organs, such as the heart, lungs or intestines.
About the Ubbo Emmius Foundation
The Ubbo Emmius Foundation (UEF) is the official fundraising foundation of the University of Groningen. Named after the university’s first rector, the fund supports ambitious academic initiatives that make a lasting impact on science and society. UEF brings together alumni, private donors and partners who believe in the power of research to solve today’s and tomorrow’s challenges. By investing in talent, innovation and collaboration, UEF enables groundbreaking projects like the HTRIC research programme to thrive. With their support, we can train the next generation of scientists, accelerate health technology and build a healthier future for all.
