The Research Network
The Research Network is a list of researchers from universities, hospitals, research institutes, and other organizations across Västra Götaland working in ATMP-related research and innovation.
By bringing together expertise from different disciplines and sectors, the network aims to foster collaboration, knowledge exchange, and new partnerships. If you are interested in a specific research area or would like to explore potential collaborations, we encourage you to contact the researchers directly.
Alexandra Stubelius
Associate Professor (PI), Chalmers University of Technology
Nanoparticle-based strategies for RNA delivery
Research at the interface of nanomedicine, immunology, and bioengineering focuses on developing nanoparticle-based strategies for RNA delivery and for studying inflammatory and immune processes in complex biological tissues. The work combines advanced biomaterials, microphysiological systems such as vessel-on-chip and blood-on-chip models, and mRNA technologies to investigate mechanisms of transport and therapeutic delivery relevant to next-generation biologics and ATMPs.
Anders Lindahl
Professor (PI), MD, University of Gothenburg/Sahlgrenska University Hospital
Regenerative medicine and cell-based therapies for cartilage repair
Research focuses on regenerative medicine and cell-based therapies for cartilage repair, with particular emphasis on the development of autologous chondrocyte transplantation and stem cell-based approaches using induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived chondroprogenitors. Decades of experience in translating cartilage regeneration from laboratory research to clinical application have made this work an important example of ATMP development in orthopedics. Research activities are closely connected to GMP manufacturing capabilities and clinical studies aimed at advancing next-generation cell therapies for cartilage injuries and osteoarthritis.
Anders Lundgren
Researcher (PI), Docent, University of Gothenburg
Surface chemistry
Research focuses on developing advanced surface chemistries on biomaterials and nanoparticles that provide defined cellular cues for controlling and studying cell behaviors. The work combines surface engineering, microfluidics, high-resolution microscopy, and quantitative image analysis to investigate how cells interact with engineered materials and biological interfaces, with particular emphasis on adhesion, signalling, mechanobiology, and transport phenomena. Serves as project leader for the Faculty of Science and Technology at University of Gothenburg within the SCALE project.
Björn Agnarsson
Researcher (PI), Chalmers University of Technology
Characterization and functional evaluation of biological nanoparticles
Research focuses on the development of advanced analytical methods for the characterization and functional evaluation of biological nanoparticles, including lipid nanoparticles (LNPs), extracellular vesicles, viruses, and other nanocarriers used in advanced therapies. Current work includes the development of label-free waveguide scattering microscopy platforms for high-throughput, multiparametric analysis of nanoparticle structure, surface composition, cellular interactions, and delivery function, with particular relevance for mRNA-LNP therapeutics. Activities also include serving as Technical Lead of the Precision HealthTech Hub at Chalmers Next Labs, supporting innovation and translation of advanced medicines and targeted delivery systems.
Camilla Hesse
Senior Lecturer, University of Gothenburg
Laboratory methods for ATMPs
Educational activities focus on biomedical laboratory science, with a particular emphasis on practical training in Advanced Therapy Medicinal Products (ATMPs). Through laboratory-based teaching, course development, and training of future biomedical laboratory scientists, this work contributes to building the competence and infrastructure required for the development and implementation of advanced therapies. Research interests in transfusion medicine, blood products, and laboratory methods further support the translational ecosystem surrounding ATMP research and healthcare applications.
Caroline Beck Adieles
Senior Lecturer (PI), University of Gothenburg
Cellular models
Research focuses on developing optics-, photonics-, and microfluidics-based technologies for life science applications. Work spans single-cell analysis, cell-cell communication, organ-on-chip systems, tissue formation, and drug screening, often integrating advanced image analysis and AI-based methods to study complex biological systems. These approaches provide important enabling technologies for regenerative medicine, cell engineering, and future ATMP development.
Cecilia Langenskiöld
MD, Sahlgrenska University Hospital
CAR-T and virus-specific T-cell therapies
Clinical activities focus on the application and implementation of advanced therapy medicinal products, including CAR-T cell therapies and virus-specific T-cell therapies. Work spans clinical studies, stem-cell transplantation, and the development of cellular immunotherapies for paediatric patients, contributing to the translation of emerging ATMP technologies into healthcare practice.
Cristina Maglio
Researcher (PI), MD, Gotheburg University
Rare autoimmune diseases
Research focuses on systemic sclerosis and other rare autoimmune diseases, with the aim of understanding disease mechanisms and identifying new therapeutic opportunities for conditions with major unmet medical needs. The work combines clinical research with translational immunology, biomarker discovery, advanced cell analysis, and computational approaches to characterize patient populations and disease heterogeneity. Through expertise in patient phenotyping, translational studies, and clinical research, this activity contributes to the development and evaluation of emerging ATMP approaches, including cell-based immunotherapies for autoimmune diseases.
Daniel Midtvedt
Senior Lecturer (PI), University of Gothenburg
Characterization technologies
Research combines biophysics, advanced microscopy, and machine learning to develop quantitative methods for studying cells, biomolecules, nanoparticles, and complex biological systems. Work includes label-free optical characterization, holographic microscopy, AI-enabled image analysis, and the investigation of biological interactions at the nano- and microscale. These technologies support a wide range of applications relevant to ATMPs, including cell characterization, biomaterial development, and quality control of biological products.
Frank Liang
Researcher, Sahlgrenska University Hospital
Process Development
Focus on process development, manufacturing workflows, and quality-related aspects of ATMPs within Sahlgrenska university hospital. Previous and current projects relate to hospital-based manufacturing of tissue-engineered products and gene therapy medicinal products (CAR-T cells) and thereby, support the translation of advanced therapies into clinical practice.
Fredrik Bergh Thorén
Professor (PI), University of Gothenburg
How natural killer (NK) cells recognize and eliminate cancer cells
Focuses on cancer immunology, particularly on how natural killer (NK) cells recognize and eliminate cancer cells, and how these mechanisms can be harnessed to develop improved cancer immunotherapies.
Hadi Valadi
Researcher (PI), University of Gothenburg
Targeted delivery systems
Research focuses on the development of extracellular vesicles (EVs) and lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) as delivery vehicles for therapeutic RNA molecules. The work combines nanomedicine, RNA biology, and translational research to develop and evaluate targeted delivery systems, with emphasis on formulation, biological function, cellular uptake, biodistribution, and therapeutic efficacy.
Hanna Mårtensson
PhD-student, Chalmers University of Technology
Gene delivery platforms
Research focuses on polymer-based gene delivery systems and on the development of improved preclinical models for evaluating nucleic acid therapeutics. The work combines biomaterials, cell biology, flow cytometry, and advanced microscopy to investigate the performance, cellular uptake, and biological effects of gene delivery platforms.
Jan Holgersson
Professor (PI), MD, University of Gothenburg/Sahlgrenska University Hospital
Cell and tissue therapies
Research in transplant immunology supported by extensive clinical and scientific expertise in transplantation, tissue compatibility and mechanisms of graft rejection. Chairman of the Board of VERIGRAFT, providing scientific, clinical and strategic leadership to the development of personalized tissue-engineered ATMPs, including P-TEV, chair of the ATMP Coordination Group at Sahlgrenska Academy, and active in the ATMP Sweden/Cell & Gene Therapy organization.
Jane Synnergren
Professor (PI), University of Skövde/University of Gothenburg
Bioinformatics in ATMP
Professor in Bioinformatics specialising in computational biology, transcriptomics, multi-omics and AI for stem-cell research and advanced therapy medicinal products (ATMPs). Her research focuses on understanding and translating molecular signatures into improved quality, safety and efficacy of cell-based therapies, with a particular interest in AI-driven approaches to ATMP quality control. She leads the 8-year research profile AID-PM (AI-driven Precision Medicine) and is PI for the digiSafe project, which develops AI-based approaches for assessing the quality and safety of personalised tissue-engineered vascular grafts. She is also partner in the Vinnova innovation miliieu StartCell, developing quality control methods for ATMP starting material. Through her academic roles at the University of Skövde and Sahlgrenska Academy, she contributes to advancing ATMP research, innovation and education.
Joakim Håkansson
Researcher, Associate Professor, RISE AB - Adjunct Senior Lecturer (PI), University of Gothenburg
Preclinical models
Research focuses on regenerative medicine and the development of preclinical models for evaluating the safety and efficacy of advanced therapies. The work combines in vivo disease and regeneration models, 3D bioprinting, and biomechanical assessment to support the development and translation of ATMPs, pharmaceuticals, and medical devices.
Jonas Nilsson
Professor (PI), University of Gothenburg
Tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes
Research focus on tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) as a treatment for malignant melanoma. TILs are manufactured as a cell therapy at the Cell and Tissue Laboratory, and patients with ocular melanoma have received treatment in a completed Phase 1 clinical trial (the HAITILs study). Currently, process development is underway in preparation for the next clinical trial.
Julie Gold
Professor (PI), Chalmers University of technology
Research focuses on biomaterials, tissue engineering, and the ways in which cellular microenvironments influence cell behaviour and fate. Activities include the development of advanced biomaterial surfaces, microfluidic systems, and cell-material constructs to guide cell growth, differentiation, and tissue regeneration, providing important enabling technologies for regenerative medicine and future ATMP applications. Research and educational activities also explore the integration of teaching and research, with a particular emphasis on connecting undergraduate education with authentic research experiences.
Kalliopi Sofou
Senior Lecturer (PI), MD, University of Gothenburg/Sahlgrenska University Hospital
Neuromuscular diseases
Research focuses on rare neuromuscular and mitochondrial diseases in children, with particular emphasis on clinical research, patient follow-up, and the implementation of advanced therapies in neurological disorders. The work combines clinical expertise, translational research, and international collaboration to improve diagnosis, treatment, and long-term outcomes for patients with inherited neuromuscular diseases, including conditions where emerging gene and cell therapies are becoming available.
Karin Säljö
Researcher, MD, University of Gothenburg/Sahlgrenska University Hospital
3D bioprinting
Research focuses on 3D bioprinted tissues for reconstructive surgery, with main focus areas being cartilage & adipose tissue. 3D bioprinting is used to create constructs with a defined shape and utilize patient's own tissue & cells as building blocks to create autologous, living tissue constructs. Right now, focus is on strategies for promoting vascularization and tissue survival, with the aim of generating larger tissues to be used for e.g., breast reconstruction after breast cancer. The goal is to generate personalized tissues capable of reducing the need for synthetic implants or improve traditional methods for tissue transplantation.
Kristin Oskarsdotter
PhD student, University of Gothenburg
3D bioprinting
Research focuses on 3D bioprinted tissues for reconstructive surgery, with main focus areas being cartilage & adipose tissue. 3D bioprinting is used to create constructs with a defined shape and utilize patient's own tissue & cells as building blocks to create autologous, living tissue constructs. Right now, focus is on strategies for promoting vascularization and tissue survival, with the aim of generating larger tissues to be used for e.g., breast reconstruction after breast cancer. The goal is to generate personalized tissues capable of reducing the need for synthetic implants or improve traditional methods for tissue transplantation.
Kristina Vukusic
Researcher (PI), Associate Professor, University of Gothenburg
Cartilage repair, GMP
Expertise in cell therapy and ATMP development, including GMP production of autologous chondrocytes and as the quality person at the Cell and Tissue Lab. Research focuses on stem-cell-based regenerative medicine, particularly the differentiation of human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) into implantable chondroprogenitors. Performed large-animal studies evaluating stem-cell-based ATMP approaches for cartilage repair, alongside basic research into stem-cell niche biology in cartilage and the heart. Developed the advanced-level course BMA123, covering introduction to ATMP and relevant laboratory methods. She serves as project leader for Sahlgrenska Academy within SCALE.
Lars Karlsson
Researcher (PI), MD, Gothenburg University, Sahlgrenska University Hospital
CAR-T cell therapies
Research focuses on the development and clinical translation of CAR T-cell therapies for diffuse midline glioma (DMG/DIPG), an aggressive and currently incurable pediatric brain tumour. The work spans the full translational pipeline, including target antigen validation, CAR T-cell engineering, functional testing in patient-derived tumour models, in vivo evaluation, and preparation for first-in-human clinical studies. Particular emphasis is placed on local delivery of CAR T cells to the central nervous system, tumour microenvironment interactions, and the development of academic ATMP platforms capable of advancing novel cell therapies from preclinical research to clinical implementation.
Lars Kölby
Professor (PI), MD, University of Gothenburg/Sahlgrenska University Hospital
3D bioprinting
Research focuses on 3D bioprinted tissues for reconstructive surgery, with main focus areas being cartilage & adipose tissue. 3D bioprinting is used to create constructs with a defined shape and utilize patient's own tissue & cells as building blocks to create autologous, living tissue constructs. Right now, focus is on strategies for promoting vascularization and tissue survival, with the aim of generating larger tissues to be used for e.g., breast reconstruction after breast cancer. The goal is to generate personalized tissues capable of reducing the need for synthetic implants or improve traditional methods for tissue transplantation.
Lars Ny
Professor, MD. Sahlgrenska Universitetssjukhus
Clinical Research with tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes
Investigating tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) as a personalized immunotherapy for patients with malignant melanoma. TILs are manufactured at the Cell and Tissue Laboratory, Sahlgrenska, and patients with ocular melanoma have received treatment in a completed Phase 1 HAITILs clinical trial. Process development is currently underway for the next clinical trial : Locoregional or Systemic Administration of Autologous Tumor Infiltrating Lymphocytes in Patients With Metastatic Melanoma (GoTIL-01), NCT07183852
Leonardo de Assis
Associate Senior Lecturer (PI), University of Gothenburg
In vitro models
Research combines molecular and cellular biology, advanced 2D and 3D tissue models, and multi-omics technologies to investigate cellular responses and tissue function in the skin. Experimental platforms include reconstructed human skin, ex vivo human tissue, and animal models, providing capabilities that are relevant for disease modelling, biomarker discovery, and preclinical assessment of regenerative medicine and ATMP-related strategies.
Marcus Wilhelmsson
Professor (PI), Chalmers University of Technology
Real-time studies of nucleic acid
Research focuses on the development of novel methods for visualising and tracking RNA and DNA in biological systems. By designing fluorescent nucleic acid building blocks that can be incorporated into natural or therapeutic RNA molecules, the work enables real-time studies of nucleic acid localisation, dynamics, and function in living cells. These technologies provide important analytical tools for the development and evaluation of RNA-based therapeutics and ATMPs, supporting studies of delivery, cellular uptake, stability, and biological activity.
Mats Hellström
Researcher (PI), University of Gothenburg - Lab Manager, Sahlgrenska Science Park
Bioengineered tissues for reproductive and transplantation-related applications
Research focuses on regenerative medicine and tissue engineering, with particular emphasis on the development of bioengineered tissues for reproductive and transplantation-related applications. Current work involves the combination of biomaterials and stem cells to develop regenerative therapies for uterine repair and reproductive health, while also supporting the translation of these approaches from preclinical models towards clinical application.
Mikael Lisak
MD, University of Gothenburg/Sahlgrenska Academy
CAR-T cell therapies
Research focuses on hematology and stem-cell transplantation, including complications and outcomes after transplantation. Clinical use of CAR-T-cell therapy and in particular outcomes in patients with aggressive B-cell lymphomas is of high interest.
Pia Johansson
Senior Lecturer (PI), University of Gothenburg
Health economic evaluation of healthcare interventions
Research focuses on health economic evaluation of healthcare interventions, with a particular interest in the unique challenges and opportunities associated with ATMPs. The work examines issues related to value assessment, reimbursement, patient access, and the long-term economic impact of advanced therapies, contributing evidence that supports informed decision-making in healthcare systems.
Rebecca Riise
Researcher, University of Gothenburg
Tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes
Research focus on tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) as a treatment for malignant melanoma. TILs are manufactured as a cell therapy at the Cell and Tissue Laboratory, and patients with ocular melanoma have received treatment in a completed Phase 1 clinical trial (the HAITILs study). Currently, process development is underway in preparation for the next clinical trial.
Stina Simonsson
Researcher (PI), Sahlgrenska University Hospital
Stem cell biology and regenerative medicine
Research focuses on stem cell biology, and regenerative medicine with the goal of generating functional tissues for repair or replacement of damaged organs. The work spans cellular reprogramming and Induced Pluripotent Stem cell biology to the development of 3D bioprinter tissues.
Teresa Olsen Ekerhult
MD. PhD., Sahlgrenska Universitetssjukhus
Personalized, 3D-bioprinted urethral grafts
Research focuses on developing personalized, 3D-bioprinted urethral grafts using patient-derived urothelial and smooth muscle cells incorporated into bioinks. By recreating the multilayered structure of the native urethra, the aim is to develop a functional, patient-specific alternative for urethral reconstruction—particularly for patients with complex urethral strictures or limited access to suitable autologous tissue. The tissue-engineered grafts have shown promising results in preclinical large-animal studies, supporting their continued development toward future clinical translation.
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