Research Themes

Research at the Cambridge Stem Cell Institute falls under three key themes. Many of our scientists contribute to more than one theme, and within these themes we have particular strengths in pluripotency, haematopoiesis, neural and epithelial stem cells.

Theme 1: Stem Cell States

Our researchers study the fundamentals of stem cell biology to understand how they commit to developing into each cell type, how they maintain a specific cell state, and how they self-renew.  

We aim to achieve new insight into these long-standing issues through a programme of innovative and cross-disciplinary investigation that integrates knowledge at multiple scales across different tissues and organisms. 

Understanding the fundamentals of stem cell biology and behaviour complements research on stem cell dysfunction in disease and provides the foundation for our work on stem cells and therapeutics.

Theme 2: Stem Cells in Disease

Many disease states arise or persist as a result of cell dysfunction. Our researchers are investigating the reasons behind the dysfunction, focusing particularly on malignancy and regenerative failure, to better understand how diseases may be treated in future.

Theme 3: Stem Cells & Therapeutics

Building on the research undertaken into stem cell states and stem cells in disease, Institute researchers are using stem cells to model diseases in vitro and to generate new diagnostic and therapeutic approaches to deliver patient benefit.

Several investigators are developing first-in-human clinical trials of cellular therapies using stem cell derivatives, while others work on new diagnostic and prognostic approaches to improve patient outcomes.