Founded in the spring of 2023 and located in Basel, Switzerland, the Institute of Human Biology (IHB) creates next generation human-relevant models that predict patient biology to accelerate the development of transformative medicines. At the forefront of global biomedical research, we integrate multidisciplinary expertise across our three scientific cores: Exploratory Biology, Translational Bioengineering, and Computational Biology, all powered by world-class infrastructure and our Scientific Operations core including state-of-the-art technology platforms.
We focus on developing robust human model systems, specializing in organoids and organoids-on-a-chip technologies to enable novel approaches for drug discovery and speed up the drug development process. Our contributions include elucidating drivers of disease, providing deep insights into human biology, improving patient response predictions, engineering assays that address safety, pharmacology, and efficacy, and generating proof-of-concept and prototyping new technologies. Through rigorous reverse translation in close collaboration with our Roche colleagues, we ensure our models meet the highest standards for pharmaceutical applications. Moreover, we have been actively overcoming industrial challenges related to organoid scaling, automation, and reproducibility with our advanced technology platforms.
Established as a bridge between academia and Roche, IHB catalyzes and expedites the translation of pioneering science into solutions for patients. We collaborate with leading academic institutions to advance fundamental scientific discoveries and, as part of Roche’s R&D engine, we work seamlessly with our colleagues to integrate our models and technologies into practical applications. Thus we aim for an end-to-end approach to advancing human model systems, from basic research through to applied and ultimately translational research for drug development. Together with our partners, we are revolutionizing the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases.
The IHB’s scientific and strategic direction is jointly led and shaped by our co-directors, IHB’s scientific leadership. Each co-director also heads a scientific core, where they guide several research groups within that specific area. Our Scientific Advisory Board comprises internationally acclaimed individuals who are contributing to the development, scientific understanding, and real-world implementation of human model systems.
The Scientific Operations team supports the institute in achieving its strategic direction and goals, providing expertise in key areas such as finance, contract management, infrastructure, and external alliances.
