On 15-16 June 2026, the Cambridge-Dresden Bioelectronics Symposium brought together world-leading experts, young researchers, and industry partners at the Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden (CRTD) in Germany. The symposium was organized in by TU Dresden, University of Cambridge and BiotroNiS network by Karl Leo, Ivan Minev, George Malliaras and Kathrin Harre. This international conference featured cutting-edge presentations across bioelectronic medicine, biological interfaces, and bio-scaffold engineering.
Xiaowen Li received the Best Poster Prize for her research on "eSoil: A Sustainable Bioelectronic Growth Scaffold for Leafy Greens." Building upon previous breakthroughs of the ePlants group, eSoil offers a low-cost and simplified alternative. By combining a 3D conductive bioelectronic network with plant growth substrate properties, such as moisture retention, proper drainage, and aeration, the scaffold provides electrical stimulation directly to leafy greens like lettuce (Lactuca sativa) and boosts crop biomass.
"It was so rewarding to see so many peers showing interest and appreciating our work," says Xiaowen. "The symposium provided an exceptional platform for scientific exchange and new collaborations."
This research targets key sustainability challenges in controlled-environment agriculture, driving the integration of bioelectronics into next-generation sustainable agriculture.
We are very proud of Xiaowen and her achievements!