Doctoral Researchers‘ Seminar: Mechanics in Brain Development

Shanice presenting at the Doctoral Researchers' Seminar. Photo: M. Tranchina.
Shanice presenting at the Doctoral Researchers' Seminar. Photo: M. Tranchina.

On 23 July 2026, EBM (post)doctoral researchers met at the Institute of Biochemistry for the latest Doctoral Researchers‘ Seminar to present and discuss their current research on the role of mechanics in brain development.

Michael presenting at the Doctoral Researchers' Seminar. Photo: S. Heidenreich.
Michael presenting at the Doctoral Researchers‘ Seminar. Photo: S. Heidenreich.

Shanice Heidenreich (C04) presented her work on cellular differentiation in brain tissue-like matrices, highlighting how stiffness, plasticity, and metastatic origin influence cellular behavior. Michael Tranchina (A04) introduced his research on how mechanics orchestrate neural lineage decisions, emphasizing the multifactorial nature of tissue mechanics and the use of brain organoids as advanced model systems that closely mimic the architecture and cellular diversity of the developing brain.

The seminar showcased the interdisciplinary spirit of EBM and fostered lively discussions across projects and research fields.

Shanice presenting at the Doctoral Researchers' Seminar. Photo: M. Tranchina.
Shanice presenting at the Doctoral Researchers‘ Seminar. Photo: M. Tranchina.