DiMeN Flexible Funding - High cost training in recognised areas of strategic need - Millie Heslington

3D printing and biofabrication summer school course, 15-19th July 2024, Utrecht University

Recently I attended the 11th annual biofabrication and 3D printing course offered by Utrecht University, the Netherlands, as part of their summer school, which is the largest in Europe. The course aimed to explore all aspects of 3D printing and biofabrication, from concept to final product, enabling students to gain an understanding of the design and fabrication process as well as the current technologies and biomedical applications of 3D printed products. The course content was presented by talks from international speakers, who spoke about their current research and included using 3D technology within modern healthcare systems, 3D printing food, biomedical applications with AI, bioprinting hydrogels for engineered tissue mimics, whole organ engineering and spheroids as well as 3D printing in space. We also had the opportunity to explore the facilities at the University of applied sciences, Utrecht, engaging in hands-on lab practicals and workshops, as well as interacting and learning from industry experts, including Cellink, BioInx and RegenHu.

From the course description and initial programme, my expectations for the course were high and I can safely say that they were exceeded; from the organisation of the course itself, to the speakers, facilities and course content. It was thoroughly enjoyable and inspiring, and I am extremely grateful for the opportunity to attend such an amazing and fulfilling course. I believe that the knowledge and inspiration I have gained from this course are essential to the success of my project and to my learning throughout my PhD, especially as I do not have a background in (bio)engineering. The course also provided ample time to connect with speakers, professors and other students, and I felt that this was not only important for expanding my network within the 3D printing field, but for exploring others’ projects and career paths.

My particular highlights included the hands on 3D printing workshop and tour of the biolab, where we attempted to make our own microfluidic chips and explored bioprinting technologies, as well as the meet-the-expert talks. These talks covered a range of topics, including 3D printing in space, bioprinting fibroblasts and algae for healing and diabetes applications, the use of scaffolds for spheroid formation, encapsulation of cells within microgels and organ-on-a-chip technologies for the kidney and heart. Despite some talks not being directly relevant to my project or the 3D printing strategies I plan to use, I found them fascinating and highly engaging. Prior to attending this course, I wasn’t aware of the numerous applications of 3D printing and biofabrication and found it extremely enlightening to hear these talks. I also learnt about a new technique that I hope to implement into my research, called melt electrowriting (MEW), a high-resolution 3D printing strategy. Upon returning from the course and discussing my experience with my supervisors at Newcastle, I learned that we actually plan to purchase a MEW system later this year! I believe that the summer school group workshops and assignments have transformed how I approach challenges and evaluate new ideas within my work. I have learned the importance of adopting a more open approach, being creative with my ideas and exploring alternative avenues before deciding on a final strategy for my project. Finally, I would just like to thank the DiMeN DTP and MRC flexible funding supplement for enabling me to experience this summer school course and I would recommend it to anyone with an interest in 3D printing and biofabrication.

Type: High Cost Training in Areas of Recognised Strategic Need