Over the past decade, synthetic biology has revolutionized biological sciences by integrating historically disparate fields like biotechnology, information technology, manufacturing and automation, with the goal to systematically design and engineer new biological systems with unprecedented functions. By viewing biology as a technology, one can reprogram cells by targeted genetic modifications or construct synthetic multicellular systems that can be used to address critical societal challenges. To this end, the Centre for Living Technologies (CLT) of the EWUU alliance is established to mobilize and integrate complementary expertise of the partner institutions in the area of (molecular) life sciences leading to robust technological innovations.

Vision

The Centre for Living Technologies envisions a long-term research collaboration focused on the engineering of biology across scales (from microbes to human cells) using both rational and data-driven approaches. This will yield next-generation tools and technologies that have the potential to improve human and environmental health. The Centre will capitalize and expand existing strengths across the Alliance institutions and aims to establish a leading role for the Alliance in the ongoing synthetic biology revolution.

Mission

The Center for Living Technologies functions as a platform that stimulates breakthrough research in the field of synthetic biology. With the aim of developing and exploiting next-generation approaches to guide  (multi)cellular behavior for improving human and planetary health, the Center focuses on the following three strategic actions:

1) Organize platform activities to connect research, researchers and society

2) Establish and reinforce mission-driven research groups in the field of Living Technologies

3) Develop accessible infrastructure for integrated molecular, cellular, and tissue engineering

The Centre for Living Technologies will act as an infrastructure for the four institutions and (regional) partners to accelerate fundamental research of living technologies and their applications. It will also create new opportunities for educational collaborations at the interface of life science and engineering.