Across Baden-Württemberg
The week began on 3 February 2026 with the 20th LinkHealth@BW meeting in Stuttgart. For our Cluster Manager Hanna Hasselblatt, it marked the first event in a week dedicated entirely to cross-cluster exchange.
The visit to the Robert Bosch Digital Health Showroom provided insights into current digital applications in care and healthcare delivery. Demonstrations included assistive systems for care facilities, digital anamnesis solutions and wearables for monitoring health parameters. The focus was on practical support in everyday healthcare settings.
During the subsequent exchange at BIOPRO Baden-Württemberg GmbH, it became clear which role LinkHealth@BW plays within the state. As a “network of networks”, the initiative connects stakeholders from life sciences, the healthcare industry, research and start-up ecosystems. Its aim is to strengthen healthcare innovation in a structured manner and to facilitate access to Baden-Württemberg’s innovation ecosystem.
Dr Barbara Jonischkeit emphasised that this model is increasingly recognised at state policy level. For nanodiag BW, such visibility is highly relevant, as strong networking structures are essential for anchoring innovation sustainably.
A particular highlight was the signing of the jointly developed Code of Conduct. With this, the participating networks commit to reliable and trust-based collaboration.
Vibrant across clusters – from Stuttgart to Heidelberg
The following day, nanodiag BW participated in #life2026 – the biomedical convention in Heidelberg. Celebrating 30 years of bioRN, the network presented impressive figures: annual membership growth of 10 per cent reflects its strong momentum. The energy was evident throughout the sessions, on stage and at the Cluster Wall, where nanodiag BW was represented alongside partner clusters.
We were particularly pleased that nanodiag BW was mentioned in the opening address by Dr Julia Schaft, Managing Director of BioRN. This underlines the importance of close cooperation within Baden-Württemberg’s life sciences ecosystem, particularly when different thematic strengths converge.
A special highlight was the keynote by Professor Kerstin Göpfrich on “RNA Origami – Architecture for Synthetic Life”. During her doctoral research, she used nanopores as sensors; today, she reconstructs nanopores using RNA origami. It is a compelling example of how ideas transcend disciplines and how technological platforms evolve through synergy.
The Young Scientists Pitch Competition was equally inspiring. The winning contribution on the cell-free synthesis of membrane proteins – featuring “SecYEET” and “ProSecCo” – was described by the jury as “very sparkling”. It demonstrated how creatively the next generation is driving innovation forward.
The network dynamic continues – in Freiburg at SmartXHealth
To conclude the week, nanodiag BW participated in SmartXHealth in Freiburg, organised by FWTM Freiburg. In his keynote, Peter Neske from Pfizer highlighted the potential of quantum technologies for future medicine. His contribution illustrated how closely technological development and medical challenges are becoming intertwined.
SmartXHealth positions itself as an innovation platform for the Freiburg health region and the tri-border area. For nanodiag BW, cross-clustering becomes tangible here: biomedical research, enabling technologies, industrial partners and regional stakeholders are interconnected to form a resilient innovation ecosystem.
Conclusion
Across THE LÄND, beyond cluster and technology boundaries, we draw a clear conclusion: strong clusters strengthen regions – and create impact. For nanodiag BW, this collaboration is not an add-on, but an integral part of our strategic orientation.
