2024 Kafatos Lecture

About

Hans Clevers

Hans Clevers has made transformational contributions to medical research through his pioneering work in the field of organoids—miniature, 3D structures grown in the lab that closely resemble real human organs, such as the intestine, liver, or brain. His groundbreaking research has opened new avenues for understanding human biology and disease.

Clevers’ breakthrough came when he discovered a way to grow intestinal stem cells outside the body and coax them to form “mini-guts”—organoids that replicate the structure and function of the human intestine. This major advance has allowed researchers to study human tissues in a dish, rather than relying on animal models or limited human samples. This has significant implications for safe and humane testing of new drugs and personalised medicine approaches, where organoids are grown from a patient’s own cells.

In addition to his academic work, Clevers has co-founded several successful spin-off companies to commercialise organoid technology. The market for organoids is expected to grow as their potential to address pressing medical needs is expanded. Clevers’ career has spanned both research and industry, showing extraordinary creativity and dedication in the pursuit of knowledge. His work continues to inspire and pave the way for new treatments for devastating diseases like cancer, making him a leading figure in biomedicine.

Hans’s Lecture

This free-to-access lecture offers an excellent opportunity to learn about Hans Clevers’ pioneering work on organoids from the researcher himself, delivered in an accessible and engaging style.

Register now to discover an inspiring technology that holds immense promise for advancing our understanding of debilitating diseases and developing more effective, personalised therapies in the years ahead.

The Kafatos Lectures

The Kafatos Lectures aim to bring groundbreaking and relevant life sciences research to the worldwide public, making it accessible and highlighting its day-to-day societal impact. Whether you’re a high school student, a world-class scientist or someone with a non-scientific background, this lecture is tailored for you. The only requirements are enthusiasm and curiosity.

Programme

Information for participants

Royal Academy of Arts and Sciences in Amsterdam (KNAW)

www.knaw.nl

Kloveniersburgwal 29
1011 JV Amsterdam Netherlands

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The joining link will be made available to registered online participants in advance of the lecture.