From trade fair to advanced surgery: the research project that pioneered 3D printing in medicine

3D printing is now widely used in medicine, with accurate models of human bones and organs providing immense help for complex surgeries. © Scharfsinn, Shutterstock.com

One EU-funded project in the 1990s turned the medical world on its head by introducing 3D printing to healthcare. This led to much better outcomes for complicated surgeries, improving the lives of thousands of patients. By Tom Cassauwers In 1990, Fried Vancraen visited a German trade show and was captivated by a 3D printer displayed … Read more

From brain maps to living bridges: the innovations set to reshape life in 2025

EU-funded researchers will continue pushing the boundaries in 2025 with advances to benefit society and the environment. © chayanuphol, Shutterstock.com

From solar energy beamed from space to genetic brain maps and live self-repairing bridges, research in 2025 is promising. And we may see more changes that make cities greener and cleaner. By Anthony King Whoever thinks research is not exciting might be in for a surprise. In 2025, we could witness genetic decoding of the … Read more

Cutting waste, not corners – how advanced lasers are shaping eco-friendly manufacturing

Improvements in laser technology could help increase sustainability in manufacturing. © OlegDoroshin, Shutterstock.com

A new generation of lasers using ultrashort bursts of light is showing great potential for the sustainable manufacturing of precision parts. By Gareth Willmer German mechanical engineer and research manager Martin Osbild is a fan of avoiding waste. At home, he would far sooner repair than replace broken household items – from washing machines to … Read more

Moving graphene from the lab to fab – how 2D materials could transform everyday electronics

EU-funded researchers are accelerating the integration of graphene into new prototypes for electronics, photonics, sensors and optoelectronics. © aslysun, Shuttestock.com

Graphene has lived up to its promise in the lab. Now, EU-funded researchers are working on supporting its wider adoption in high-end electronics, photonics and sensors. By Anthony King Dr Inge Asselberghs has been closely involved in advanced graphene research over the past decade. Today, she’s at the forefront of EU-funded efforts to bring this … Read more