Mission: The CTGCT aims to be a pioneering research institution in Slovenia, addressing critical healthcare challenges through cutting-edge research in cancer and rare genetic diseases. We co-create medical breakthroughs by bridging innovative research with clinical practice, working alongside renowned institutions. By transferring knowledge through international collaborations and striving for scientific excellence, we enable the advancement of gene and cell therapies globally, with a special focus on the Western Balkans and Eastern Europe.

Committed to excellence, inclusivity, and collaboration, we want to attract top talent and Slovenian scientists working abroad while fostering a stimulating environment for young researchers. The mission of CTGCT is based on translating scientific achievements into tangible therapeutic applications that serve society and stand as a beacon of innovation in the world. While providing ground-breaking research, the center will continue to work intensively on building public trust in science, demonstrating how vision, dedication, and high-quality work lead to meaningful healthcare outcomes that transform patients’ lives.

Vision: We push the boundaries of gene and cell therapy science with cutting-edge research in cancer and rare genetic diseases with a focus on neurodevelopmental diseases in compliance with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) standards. We co-create innovative therapeutic solutions for the healthcare challenges of the future. We enable breakthrough discoveries and career development by transferring knowledge to young scientists and striving for good mutual relations with clinicians, regulatory authorities, and industry partners. Committed to scientific excellence and ethical research practices, we want to transform global healthcare and stand as a leading force in gene and cell therapy.

Prof Dr Roman Jerala

Head of the Department of Synthetic Biology and Immunology, National Institute of Chemistry

Innovative use of synthetic biology for the programming of molecules and cells for improved efficacy and safety of advanced treatments

Roman is the Head of the Department of Synthetic Biology and Immunology, where, with a large group of motivated collaborators, covers the range from atoms to organisms. The focus of research is on the development of new biomedical technologies and the translation of biomedical discoveries for advanced therapies. They entered the field of synthetic biology through extremely successful student research projects at the iGEM competition, which began at MIT with meetings of teams from all over the world.

Prof Dr MOJCA BENČINA

Head of the Infrastructure Center, National Institute of Chemistry

Knowledge and innovation hand in hand for advances in medicine

Long-time collaborator at the Department of Synthetic Biology and Immunology, where she leads a team of research colleagues in the field of ultrasound applications in conjunction with synthetic biology and immunology to regulate molecular biological cell processes, and an infrastructure group for the rendering of cell processes by fluorescent techniques. She teaches intellectual property protection at the Biotechnical Faculty and Microbiology at the higher education Institute Physiotherapy. She is an official representative for the protection of industrial property rights at the European and the Slovenian patent office. She is the recipient of several prestigious awards, such as: Zois Award for Outstanding Achievements in Immunology and Synthetic Biology, Pregl’s Award for Exceptional Scientific Achievements in Chemistry and Related Disciplines, “Socrates Award for High School Didactics” (SOVA) and the award Prometheus Science for Excellence in Communication.

DR Duško lainšček

National Institute of Chemistry

Expert in the field of genome modification

Duško is a leading Slovenian expert in genome modification using the CRISPR/Cas system also with the aim of creating immunotherapy cell products. He has extensive experience in the study of therapeutic applications in vivo.

DR MIHA MODIC

National Institute of Chemistry and UCL/KCL

Development of synthetic RNA biology tools for advanced gene therapy

Miha is Sir Henry Wellcome Senior Fellow (UCL/KCL London), working between the Francis Crick Institute, EMBL, and The National Institute of Chemistry. He is developing novel systems biology approaches and functional RNA biology tools for improving the specificity of gene and cell therapies.