Bridging mechanics and genetics in early development
British Society of Developmental Biology
30 June 2025, IBRB, University of Warwick
EVENT: Bridging mechanics and genetics in early development
This event brings together perspectives from the fields of mechanobiology and genetics to deepen our understanding of morphogenesis. We focus on bringing multidisciplinary interactions to bear on questions related to how complex form emerges during development. We encourage a broad range of attendees, with most talks to be given by Early Career Researchers.
Event background
The last 20 years have seen a revolution in quantitative approaches within biology. From single cell -omics methods through to live imaging, we can now assay biological systems with unprecedented precision. Alongside such data, we have seen a resurgence of interest from physics, engineering, mathematics, and computer science in biology problems.
Every organ has a specific shape and size, necessary for its effective function. Organs typically comprise multiple cell types, that must function together precisely and robustly. We know remarkably little about how organ shape and organisation emerges (organogenesis) in 3D. This is especially true when it comes to understanding human development. Yet, numerous adult diseases are associated with developmental defects; e.g., > 40% of adult human heart disease has an embryonic origin. Early organ formation requires both genetic and mechanical processes to act synergistically; exploring these interactions is the main focus of our meeting.
Event organisers
The meeting is co-organised by Prof Timothy Saunders (Warwick), Prof Paul Riley (Oxford) and Dr Erik Griffin (Warwick). Prof Saunders is an expert in mechanobiology, especially in applications to development systems. Prof Riley is a world-leader in heart morphogenesis and regeneration, and Dr Griffin is an Associate Professor in Cells & Development at School of Life Sciences. Collectively, they encourage a broad range of labs to participate, ensuring a vibrant atmosphere and diversity of viewpoints, including research focused on human models of development and disease. Find out more about the event organisers below;
Event structure
30 June 2025, IBRB, University of Warwick
Processes from the molecular scale through to tissue scale are critical in building our organs during development. This event will tackle problems across different scales, with plenty of time provided for questions and interactions between researchers working at different levels of detail. It is important to develop Early Career Researchers (ECRs). Most of the talks will be given by ECRs. We will have plenary talks at the beginning and end of the day from Yohanns Bellaiche and Cerys Manning. There will be a vibrant poster session, with prizes.
As part of the day, we will provide feedback to ECR presenters, an essential opportunity to develop their work and the next steps in their careers. We will also have open discussion sessions, where scientists can actively engage to develop potential collaborations.
| Time | Description | Speaker(s) |
|---|---|---|
| 8:30am – 9:30am | Arrival and registration | - |
| 9:30am – 10:00am | Plenary Talk 1 | Yohanns Bellaiche |
| 10:00am – 11:00am | Session 1: 4 talks of 15 mins (12 + 3 min question): Early organ development | - |
| 11:00am – 11:30am | Break and Discussion at posters | - |
| 11:30am – 12:30pm | Session 2: 4 talks of 15 mins (12 + 3 min question): New tools in quantifying development | - |
| 12:30pm – 2:00pm | Lunch and Discussion [including posters] | - |
| 2:00pm – 3:30pm | Session 3: 6 talks of 15 mins (12 + 3 min question): Comparative systems for understanding organogenesis | - |
| 3:30pm – 4:30pm | Break and Discussion, including roundtable discussion | - |
| 4:30pm – 5:30pm | Session 4: 4 talks of 15 mins (12 + 3 min question): Interplay between mechanics and genetics in development | - |
| 5:30pm – 6:00pm | Plenary Talk 2 | Cerys Manning |
| 6:00pm – 6:30pm | Wrap-up Discussion | - |
| 6:30pm | Departure | - |
| - |
Find us
Situated in the heart of England, Warwick Medical School is located on the border of Coventry and Warwickshire, providing easy access to the cities of Coventry and Birmingham and the beautiful, historic towns of Warwick, Kenilworth, Royal Leamington Spa and Stratford-upon-Avon.
Well-served by public transport, you can reach London in under an hour and Manchester in under two hours. Thanks to Birmingham Airport being just under 30-minutes from Coventry, international travel is right on your doorstep too!
Event sponsors
British Society of Developmental Biology
Warwick Medical School
School of Life Sciences
Institute of Advanced Studies, Warwick
Contact us
If you require further information or assistance please don't hesitate to contact the team via the 'Email us' button opposite.