Research theme
Biological systems in microgravity
We are building a space biology programme that studies how microgravity affects cell signalling, epigenetics, pharmacological responses, and cancer-relevant biological processes.
Technology and experiment platforms
Brunel has received a Yuri GmbH Random Positioning Machine, giving the lab a practical route to time-averaged simulated microgravity experiments. Alongside biological assays, the lab is developing tools, materials, vessels, and bespoke random-positioning hardware for ground-based and space-based experiments.
This direction connects naturally to the lab's wider instrumentation work: microfluidics, imaging, sample handling, and compact devices that can support robust pre-flight biology.
Funding and collaborations
The space biology activity includes a UKRI STFC collaboration between Kayser Space and Brunel University of London, with Dr Sibylle Ermler as lead PI. Related Brunel pump-priming work with Dr Ruth Mackay and Prof. Emmanouil Karteris supports microfluidic device testing for microgravity conditions.
The lab is also a key partner in B-STAR, a Brunel-wide network for interdisciplinary space-travel research. The network supports small projects, shared equipment, and links with academic and industrial partners interested in ground-based and ISS-oriented experiments.
X-CELLS project
Studying cells and tissue biochemistry in simulated microgravity
X-CELLS explores how cells and tissues behave when the mechanical forces they experience are altered by simulated microgravity. The project maintains infrastructure for observing 3D cellular systems using a Yuri Gravity random positioning machine, while developing new organ-on-a-chip systems and RPM designs for biological experiments.
The programme supports studies across infection, inflammation, cancer, genome maintenance, cell division, and food manufacturing, and is part of Brunel University London's interdisciplinary B-STAR network.
Read the Brunel project pageRPM digital twin
Making random positioning visible
Our digital-twin visualisation brings together a rotating 3D model of a random positioning machine (RPM), gravity-direction displays, sample-frame motion and actuator telemetry. The clip shows how these views change together as the model moves.
A 25-second screen recording of the RPM digital twin. The wireframe machine rotates while adjacent panels show gravity direction, sample-frame trajectories and motor traces. This visualisation does not by itself establish the physical conditions experienced by a biological sample.
The GitHub repository will be available soon. Contact us for early previews.