This summer, the Ombion Center for Animal-Free Biomedical Translation (CPBT) opened at Utrecht Science Park. With support from the National Growth Fund, Ombion has entered its next phase. More than sixty partners are now working together to develop and apply innovative biomedical models that do not rely on animal testing.
One of the biggest challenges in moving toward animal-free research is not only developing new models but also making the knowledge and skills to use them widely accessible. Education and training are therefore essential pillars within Ombion. The center will train researchers, students, healthcare professionals and policymakers in the use of animal-free methods so that the impact extends beyond laboratories and influences both practice and the education of the next generation of professionals.
As a partner of Ombion, Elevate, together with Utrecht University’s Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, takes a leading role in developing continuing education and professional training programs. With our experience in online medical education, we ensure that the latest insights and techniques around non-animal testing models are available to a wide audience.
We are developing accessible learning materials, training modules and educational programs that meet the needs of researchers and professionals in the Netherlands and abroad. In this way, we contribute to the rapid dissemination and implementation of the innovative methods developed within Ombion.
Ombion aims to be more than just a Dutch initiative. The center wants to become a European leader in animal-free innovation, influencing research, policy and education. With a budget of 245 million euros, including 124.5 million from the National Growth Fund, Ombion will invest over the next ten years in scientific breakthroughs, training programs and international cooperation.
Ombion’s strength comes from its wide network of partners. More than sixty organizations are involved, including companies such as AstraZeneca, Genmab, Roche, Sanofi and Unilever, as well as top universities like Utrecht University, Erasmus MC, Radboudumc, UMC Utrecht, Maastricht University and Johns Hopkins University. Public bodies like RIVM and the Medicines Evaluation Board (CBG), along with organizations such as Stichting Proefdiervrij and the ALS Patients’ Association, are also part of the collaboration.
This broad partnership, spanning science, industry, government and patient groups, ensures that the transition to animal-free innovation has strong support and real impact.
By focusing on education, research and innovation, Ombion is helping speed up the move to animal-free biomedical applications. Elevate is proud to be part of this effort and to work with partners on creating a future where safer, more effective and more relevant innovations reach patients faster, without the use of animals.
