In February (2025) Queen Mary University of London opened one of Europe’s largest and most advanced organ-on-chip facilities – the Centre for Predictive in vitro Models (CPM). The centre brings together over 100 academic staff and postdoctoral researchers to advance the development and application of complex in vitro models for fundamental research, drug development, and pre-clinical testing. The announcement marks a significant step towards ending the reliance on animal testing as the centre aims to revolutionise disease modelling and drug testing.
Focussing in on in vitro models
The CPM is well positioned to lead the way in multidisciplinary research and translation of cutting-edge predictive in vitro models. These models include 2D and 3D cell culture models, organoids, microphysiological systems, and organ-on-chip technologies. The CPM houses some of the most advanced in vitro modelling facilities in Europe, featuring a range of commercial organ-on-chip platforms alongside a bioprinting facility to support the creation of custom organ-on-chip systems.
What is Organ-on-chip?
Organ-on-chip technologies are advanced microfluidic systems designed to replicate the in vivo functions, biomechanics, and (patho)physiological responses of organs or tissues. These devices consist of microchannels that house selected populations of living cells and culture media. They the potential to offer a faster, more accurate way to study diseases and test treatments without the need for animal experiments.
Engaging Key Partners
The Centre is dedicated to fostering strong collaborations and has already established an impressive network of over 60 industrial partners, and 20 other non-academic organisations, including regulatory bodies, charities, and funding agencies. This environment is designed to encourage collaboration and networking to provide greater impact and ultimately shape the field of predictive in vitro modelling. The state-of-the-art facility has received substantial funding from the National Centre for the Replacement, Refinement and Reduction of Animals in Research (NC3Rs) and various industry partners.
The Centre for Doctoral Training
The event also marked the launch of a new £7 million EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training (CDT)) at Queen Mary, which will train 60 PhD students over the next eight years in next-generation organ-on-chip technologies. Over a four-year programme, students will complete a PhD alongside a comprehensive training programme and an internship. Their training will cover technical skills for designing, manufacturing, and advancing organ-on-chip models, as well as an understanding of the regulatory and policy frameworks needed to support their adoption. In addition, students will develop a range of transferable skills to equip them as future leaders in the field.
Organ-on-chip technologies are advanced microfluidic systems designed to replicate the in vivo functions, biomechanics, and (patho)physiological responses of organs or tissues. These devices consist of microchannels that house selected populations of living cells and culture media. They potentially offer a faster, more accurate way to study diseases and test treatments without the need for animal experiments.
Professor Hazel Screen, Principal Investigator on both grants, and co-director of the Queen Mary Centre for Predictive in vitro Models said:
“Collectively, this new facility and the CDT offer incredibly exciting opportunities for us to bring the organ-chip community together. We can drive innovative organ-chip research, train a new generation of multidisciplinary research leaders in the field, and bring this exciting technology a step closer to translatory impact.”
Lord Patrick Vallance, Minister of State for Science, Research and Innovation, called the new facility a “significant opportunity” to strengthen the UK’s leadership in animal-free research:
“Phasing out animal testing where possible is a clear goal of this government and innovative methods, like organ-on-a-chip technology, are essential to delivering that ambition.
“Queen Mary University’s new facility and the new Centre for Doctoral Training, supported by Government funding, presents a significant opportunity to place the UK at the forefront of developing these alternatives further, allowing vital research and development to continue while supporting animal welfare, protecting the public and growing our economy.”
With this new facility, Queen Mary University of London strengthens its position as a global leader in organ-on-chip research, paving the way for more ethical and human-specific science.