Dr Megan Coomer

Designing Cells in Silico: Bridging Academia and Industry

As global challenges related to resources and public health grow, with a projected population of 10 billion by 2050, innovative solutions are vital for planetary and human health. Cell Bauhaus, a start-up by Dr. Megan Coomer and Professor Michael Stumpf from the University of Melbourne, combines mathematical modelling and software engineering to simulate cellular behaviour.

Understanding how genetic modifications affect cells is crucial for engineering biological systems and precision medicine, but trial-and-error lab testing is slow and costly. To solve this, we are developing digital twins of cells, enabling rapid exploration of genetic modifications in silico, accelerating hypothesis testing and lab work. We are currently designing microorganisms that can produce sustainable products like food and fuel.

Our research highlights the importance of academic work in creating scalable industrial solutions. We believe that collaboration between academia and industry is key to impactful innovations for planetary and human health. We are excited about the role future graduates, skilled in both life and theoretical sciences, will play in shaping this future.

Dr Megan Coomer
Founder and CEO, Cell Bauhaus

Megan has spent 15+ years training and working at the crossroads of applied mathematics, bioinformatics, and biology. Her academic research broadly focuses on building stochastic models of different biological processes. She is passionate about breaking down barriers between mathematicians and biologists to advance translational research.

In 2023 Megan co-founded Cell Bauhaus with ARC Laureate Professor Michael Stumpf. At Cell Bauhaus, our mission is to leverage virtual cell technology to accelerate the discovery of sustainable solutions to humanity’s most pressing problems.