Markus Rottmar is group leader (Cell-/Tissue Materials Interactions group) in the Lab for Biointerfaces. After his graduation in molecular biology from the University of Innsbruck in 2006, he received his PhD from ETH Zurich in 2011 for his work on cell-material interaction at Empa. This was followed by two postdoctoral positions; first at Empa on the development of a polyurethane-based 3D scaffold for the treatment of chronic skin wounds and secondly at the University Hospital Zurich on in vivo muscle tissue engineering. He moved to Empa in 2014 for his current position.

Markus Rottmar is interested in gaining a better understanding of how cells and tissues interact with biomaterials. He is intrigued by the role of blood-material interaction and immune cell responses on downstream cell fate decisions and how complex signaling pathways regulate these events. Ultimately, his aim is to use this knowledge for the development of materials with tailored properties that steer a desired cellular response (i.e. facilitating or preventing tissue integration, enhancing wound healing).

Memberships in national and international organizations

• Executive committee member of the Swiss Society for Biomaterials + Regenerative Medicine, SSB+RM

• Member of the European Society for Biomaterials, ESB