About us
STRONG-UR aims to revolutionise surgical tissue reconstruction by creating bioprinted next-generation tissue constructs that fit seamlessly into the patient's anatomy, having urethral reconstruction as a use-case.
The project is in line with EU health policy, addressing unmet clinical needs and supports a Europe fit for the digital age.
The gender dimension in STRONG-UR
As part of Horizon Europe’s commitment to gender equality, STRONG-UR integrates this principle across its activities, aiming to eliminate gender and socio-economic inequalities in research and innovation.
An ethical approach to in vivo research
All animal studies within the project will strictly adhere to the International Guiding Principles for Biomedical Research Involving Animals, as well as Directive 2010/63/EU and the Code of Ethical Conduct for Animal Experimentation.
A pan-European project for advanced urological solutions
The STRONG-UR project is brought to life by a multidisciplinary consortium comprising 12 partners from 6 European countries and one Associated Member State.
This team brings together leading experts from academia, hospitals, and industry, all working together to tackle the project’s ambitious goals.
With a strong foundation in state-of-the-art infrastructure and a proven track record of successful projects, STRONG-UR partners have contributed to significant publications, patents, and breakthroughs in biomaterials, medical devices, and tissue engineering.
The consortium includes academic specialists in cell biology, biomedical engineering, chemistry, materials science, and clinical medicine, alongside industry experts in 3D printing, bioink formulation, medical devices, and intellectual property management.
Aalborg University
Founded in 1974, Aalborg University is home to around 20,000 students. It is renowned for its problem-based learning approach, where students work in groups on real-world projects. The university maintains strong connections with society, collaborating both nationally and internationally to bridge education with practical experience.
Main contribution: Project coordination and management, bioink development
Ghent University
Ghent University is an open, pluralistic and socially engaged university. Over the past 200 years, Ghent University has counted many eminent scientists, ministers and even Nobel laureates among its staff and alumni. It offers more than 200 programmes and conducts in-depth research within a wide range of scientific domains.
Main contribution: Development of biofabrication methods and non-invasive monitoring
4Tissue
4Tissue is a biotech company at the forefront of regenerative medicine, utilizing advanced bio-interactive hydrogels to transition from cells to tissue engineering. The company develops natural and minimally invasive treatments for tissue reconstruction and regeneration. 4Tissue is a spin-off from Ghent University, Ghent University Hospital, and the Vrije Universiteit Brussel.
Main contribution: Gelatine-based hydrogels platform, regulatory and exploitation-related activities
Tampere University
Formed in 2019, Tampere University is one of Finland’s most multidisciplinary institutions. Known for its excellence in research and teaching, it offers programs across technology, health, and society. With 22,500 students and 4,200 staff, the university fosters strong international collaborations, combining scientific disciplines with applied expertise.
Main contribution: Develop in vitro models mimicking urethral diseases
Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore
With its five campuses, twelve faculties, and approximately 40,000 students, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore (UCSC) is the leading Catholic higher education institution in Europe. Committed to fostering progress across all fields of knowledge, UCSC upholds the principles of disciplinary autonomy and scientific rigor. Through its Faculty of Medicine and Surgery and its affiliated university hospital, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, UCSC plays a pivotal role in the education of future physicians and healthcare professionals. UCSC is internationally recognized for its excellence in clinical research, cutting-edge surgical innovation, and patient-centered care.
Main contribution: Carry out in vivo biocompatibility testing of bioinks and studies of surgical reconstructions using bioprinted tissue in animal models
University Medical Center Utrecht
UMC Utrecht is one of the largest and most renowned academic healthcare institutions in the Netherlands. As a leading international medical center, it is dedicated to advancing health through research, high-quality patient care, and education. It focuses on generating, testing, and applying knowledge in health, disease, and healthcare to benefit both patients and society.
Main contribution: Investigate structure-function relationship in urethral tissues, and in vivo studies using bioprinted tissue
Aalborg University Hospital
Aalborg University Hospital is the largest hospital in the North Jutland region. It is also North Jutland’s largest workplace with approximately 7,000 employees. It plays a central role in the collaborative healthcare system in North Jutland, but also makes its mark at both national and international level.
Main contribution: In vivo studies and development of surgical approaches for urethral reconstruction
Adbioink Biosystem Technology
AdBioInk, a biotech company born from TÜBİTAK Marmara Technopark research, develops advanced ECM bioinks and biopolymers for tissue engineering. It pioneered the BioPen, the first handheld bioprinter, overcoming traditional 3D bioprinting limits. AdBioInk also offers a versatile UV/Vis curing platform, enhancing research efficiency in biomaterials and regenerative medicine.
Main contribution: BioPen device for in situ 3D-bioprinting and in vivo experiments
Brinter AM Technologies
Brinter AM Technologies is a Finnish tech firm within the Brinter Group, revolutionising manufacturing with advanced additive manufacturing technologies. Backed by global partners, the EU, and Business Finland, its expert team develops, patents, manufactures, and licenses cutting-edge solutions, unlocking the industry’s potential and shaping the future of manufacturing.
Main contribution: Bioprinting core platform and manufacturing process
Wellspect AB
Wellspect is a global MedTech leader in continence care, providing innovative solutions for urinary and bowel dysfunction to enhance independence and well-being. With over 40 years of expertise, its brands LoFric® and Navina™ set industry standards. Committed to sustainability, Wellspect collaborates with users and healthcare professionals to improve clinical outcomes responsibly.
Main contribution: Support the development of in vitro models
European Association of Urology
The EAU is a non-profit organisation which supports medical professionals working in the field of urology through many of its scientific, professional, educational and awareness-building initiatives. Since its foundation, the EAU has been committed to the development of urological community and today it represents more than 19,000 medical professionals working in Europe and beyond its borders.
Main contribution: Dissemination and networking activities
META Group
Founded in 1993, META Group is a leading international company, assisting entrepreneurial talents and decision-makers in developing and implementing high-impact solutions to address the most pressing challenges. From coaching researchers and entrepreneurs to shaping policies and developing regional strategies, META Group provides tailored solutions to foster knowledge-intensive growth.
Main contribution: Strategy and execution of communication and dissemination activities
