The translation of biomedical knowledge to patients and users results in new medicines, medical technologies, and food products. This benefits our health, our environment, and economy. Animal testing is currently an important link in the biomedical development process, but it is increasingly under pressure. Often, animal tests are not a good model for human application; they are time-consuming, expensive, and cause animal suffering. To continue improving the health of humans and animals, a radically different approach is needed: making the step to humans and animals faster and more effective, without relying on animal testing by default.
The new Ombion Centre for Animal-Free Biomedical Translation (Ombion), formerly known as the CPBT, will shape this approach, creating new business opportunities around animal-free technologies and biomedical translation. This allows the Netherlands to distinguish itself globally and realize its ambition of becoming a leader in animal-free innovation.
Aim
Ombion is a national centre for valorizing and disseminating animal-free innovations and expertise. It aims to improve and accelerate the transition of new biomedical innovations to patients and users, at lower costs, and without the use of animals. This will lead to safer, more effective, and better medicines while reducing animal testing.
Together with a large number of national and international partners, Ombion will work on the development and dissemination of animal-free biomedical innovations and expertise. The initial transition projects will focus on ALS, cystic fibrosis, osteoarthritis/rheumatic diseases, and asthma/COPD. Ombion will implement the available and developed methods, tools, and expertise together with researchers and companies. The new centre will also offer education, training, advice, and support to enhance the acceptance and use of animal-free biomedical innovations. Combined, Ombion will run an integrated program that accelerates the transition to animal-free testing and strengthens the Dutch economy.
Budget
The total budget available to Ombion in the period from 2025 to 2034 is 245 million euros. 124.5 million of this budget is an investment from the Dutch National Growth Fund (NGF); the other funds are contributed by public and private Ombion partners.
The translation of biomedical knowledge to patients and users results in new medicines, medical technologies, and food products. This benefits our health, our environment, and economy. Animal testing is currently an important link in the biomedical development process, but it is increasingly under pressure. Often, animal tests are not a good model for human application; they are time-consuming, expensive, and cause animal suffering. To continue improving the health of humans and animals, a radically different approach is needed: making the step to humans and animals faster and more effective, without relying on animal testing by default.
The new Ombion Centre for Animal-Free Biomedical Translation will shape this approach, creating new business opportunities around animal-free technologies and biomedical translation. This allows the Netherlands to distinguish itself globally and realize its ambition of becoming a leader in animal-free innovation.
Aim
Ombion is a national centre for valorizing and disseminating animal-free innovations and expertise. It aims to improve and accelerate the transition of new biomedical innovations to patients and users, at lower costs, and without the use of animals. This will lead to safer, more effective, and better medicines while reducing animal testing.
Together with a large number of national and international partners, Ombion will work on the development and dissemination of animal-free biomedical innovations and expertise. The initial transition projects will focus on ALS, cystic fibrosis, osteoarthritis/rheumatic diseases, and asthma/COPD. Ombion will implement the available and developed methods, tools, and expertise together with researchers and companies. The new centre will also offer education, training, advice, and support to enhance the acceptance and use of animal-free biomedical innovations. Combined, Ombion will run an integrated program that accelerates the transition to animal-free testing and strengthens the Dutch economy.
Budget
The total budget available to Ombion in the period from 2025 to 2034 is 245 million euros. 124.5 million of this budget is an investment from the Dutch National Growth Fund (NGF); the other funds are contributed by public and private Ombion partners.
News
Catch up on our latest news
Help shape the future of regulators’ training on non-animal methodologies
Are you a regulator, risk assessor, or risk manager working with pharma, chemicals, biotech, medical devices, toxicology, food or environmental safety? Please share your view. Your input will guide the development of tomorrow’s training for regulatory professionals.
Your insights will directly support the Global Education Hub and the Ombion Centre for Animal-Free Biomedical Translation (CPBT) in co-creating practical, forward-looking, ad hoc training tools.
Take the survey now! It only takes about 10 minutes to complete and is completely anonymous. The survey is open until 31 December 2025.
Ombion celebrates launch and site opening
On 7 July 2025, the Centre for Animal-free Biomedical Translation, supported by the Dutch National Growth Fund, was officially launched under its new name: Ombion Centre for Animal-free Biomedical Translation. Read more
Press release on CPBT funding
The press release on the NGF investment in CPBT was published on the Utrecht University website and many CPBT partner websites. It was also shared by various external media channels. Read the press release here
ARD Tagesthemen television broadcast
German Public television channel ARD broadcasted an item showcasing examples of animal-free research and educational alternatives recorded at Utrecht University. View the broadcast on LinkedIn here (in German)
BNR Nieuwsradio podcast episode
BNR Nieuwsradio show 'Wetenschap Vandaag' created a podcast episode on the CPBT. Wouter Dhert (UU), Anne Kienhuis (RIVM) and Jeffrey Beekman (UMC Utrecht) were interviewed about CPBT and their research. Listen to the podcast here (in Dutch)
Ombion at Utrecht Science Park
Ombion will be established as a physical centre located at Utrecht Science Park, where expertise and infrastructure from leading Dutch knowledge institutions, research centres, and businesses come together to drive the transition to animal-free innovation. Ombion will serve as a one-stop shop for organisations interested in adopting animal-free biomedical translation or for those looking to conduct preclinical research in the most efficient way. Our approach is built on four interconnected components explained below, forming a comprehensive strategy to enhance biomedical research and translation. The centre will leverage the knowledge and tools developed through its transition projects, transforming them into marketable propositions and spin-outs, supported by in-house expertise.
How Ombion operates
Transition Projects: Within Ombion's transition projects, public and private partners will collaborate to develop new tools, methods, and knowledge to demonstrate the transition to animal-free biomedical translation in light of current biomedical challenges. The initial transition projects focus on ALS, Cystic Fibrosis, Osteoarthritis & Rheumatoid Arthritis, and Asthma & COPD.
Expertise Development: Alongside the transition projects, Ombion will implement an in-house advanced development program. This program will expand the knowledge acquired from the transition projects and cultivate new expertise, thereby strengthening each proposition and addressing existing challenges and hurdles. The Ombion's efforts will concentrate on four key areas:
- Transition science, ethics, and sustainability
- Regulatory innovation
- Educational program development
- Data science, supporting tools and models
Propositions: The methods, tools, and expertise developed within the transition projects are used to create propositions for academic researchers, companies, and governmental bodies. Ombion will provide the following propositions:
- Training and education on animal-free biomedical translation
- Advising on existing data, tools and methods for animal-free biomedical translation
- Providing support for the validation and adoption of animal-free tools and models
- Supporting the development of new animal-free methods, tools, and models.
Spin-out Activities: Ombion will support spin-outs emerging from the new products, methods, tools, expertise, and services developed within its transition projects. This support will include mobilising financing, drafting business plans, building strong teams, and integrating these spin-outs into the thriving animal-free innovation ecosystem.
Ombion at Utrecht Science Park
Ombion will be established as a physical centre located at Utrecht Science Park, where expertise and infrastructure from leading Dutch knowledge institutions, research centres, and businesses come together to drive the transition to animal-free innovation. Ombion will serve as a one-stop shop for organisations interested in adopting animal-free biomedical translation or for those looking to conduct preclinical research in the most efficient way. Our approach is built on four interconnected components explained below, forming a comprehensive strategy to enhance biomedical research and translation. The centre will leverage the knowledge and tools developed through its transition projects, transforming them into marketable propositions and spin-outs, supported by in-house expertise.
How Ombion operates
Transition Projects: Within Ombion's transition projects, public and private partners will collaborate to develop new tools, methods, and knowledge to demonstrate the transition to animal-free biomedical translation in light of current biomedical challenges. The initial transition projects focus on ALS, Cystic Fibrosis, Osteoarthritis & Rheumatoid Arthritis, and Asthma & COPD.
Expertise Development: Alongside the transition projects, Ombion will implement an in-house advanced development program. This program will expand the knowledge acquired from the transition projects and cultivate new expertise, thereby strengthening each proposition and addressing existing challenges and hurdles. Ombion's efforts will concentrate on four key areas:
- Transition science, ethics, and sustainability
- Regulatory innovation
- Educational program development
- Data science, supporting tools and models
Propositions: The methods, tools, and expertise developed within the transition projects are used to create propositions for academic researchers, companies, and governmental bodies. Ombion will provide the following propositions:
- Training and education on animal-free biomedical translation
- Advising on animal-free biomedical translation
- Providing support for the validation and adoption of animal-free tools and models
- Supporting the development of new animal-free methods, tools, and models.
Spin-out Activities: Ombion will support spin-outs emerging from the new products, methods, tools, expertise, and services developed within its transition projects. This support will include mobilising financing, drafting business plans, building strong teams, and integrating these spin-outs into the thriving animal-free innovation ecosystem.
Our partnership
At Ombion, a diverse consortium of academic scientists, lecturers and researchers from universities of applied sciences, industry partners, regulatory agencies, patient organizations, government bodies, and NGOs will collaborate to pave the way for more accurate and cost-effective medicines, minimizing the need for animal testing.
Core partners:
Utrecht University, HU University of Applied Sciences Utrecht, Maastricht University, University of Groningen, UMCG & UMC Utrecht.
The Ombion Centre for Animal-free Biomedical Translation National Growth Fund application was submitted by the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Food Security and Nature (LVVN, formerly LNV) within the framework of its Transitie Proefdiervrije Innovatie (TPI) program.
Ombion partners (in alphabetical order):
3BrainAG, Allegro, ALS patiëntenvereniging, Amsterdam University Medical Center (AUMC), Aquilo, ArthroSave, Aryzon, AstraZeneca, Azar innovations, Chondropeptix, CHRN on-chip biotechnologies B.V, Citeq, Danone Nutricia Research, Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e), Elevate Academy, Erasmus MC, ETB-bislife, EU JRC (EU Joint Research Centre, JRC), EU Reference Laboratory for alternatives to animal testing (JRC-ECVAM), FAIR Therapeutics, Genmab, GQ Bio Therapeutics, hDMT, hiPSC hotel LUMC, HIT CF Europe, HU University of Applied Sciences Utrecht, Humane World for Animals, InnoCore Pharmaceuticals, intoSURGERY, Johns Hopkins Center for Alternatives to Animal Testing (CAAT), Johns Hopkins University, Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC), Liposphere, Longfonds, Medicines Evaluation Board (CBG), Mimetas, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), NCFS, NeoVentures Biotechnology Europe, Netri, NLC, Nordic Bioscience, Optics11 Life, Orthros Medical, QurAlis, Radboud University (RU), Radboudumc, Recode Therapeutics, ReumaNederland, Roche, Sanofi, Stichting ALS Nederland, Stichting Proefdiervrij, Synapticure, Tecan, TNO, Treeway, UMC Utrecht, Unilever, University Medical Center Groningen (UMCG), University of Groningen (RUG), Utrecht University, VectorY, Wageningen University & Research (WUR), ZEISS & Arivis, ZonMw
Vacancy: Executive Assistant
Location: Utrecht Science Park, The Netherlands (Hybrid/office)
Employment type: Parttime (0,6 fte)
Reports to: Board of Directors: Scientific Director & Valorization & Operations Director
Salary Scale: between €2.800 till €3.800 (fulltime)
Start date: Q4 2025
About Ombion Centre for Animal-free Biomedical Translation
The Ombion Centre for Animal-free Biomedical Translation is a mission-driven initiative focused on accelerating the transition to animal-free biomedical innovation. By connecting cutting-edge science with real-world applications, Ombion seeks to create systemic change that benefits both human health and animal welfare. To help realize this mission, we are looking for a proactive, detail-oriented Executive Assistant to support our leadership team.
The Role
As Executive Assistant, you will play a pivotal role in enabling the smooth and effective functioning of the Ombion Foundation by directly supporting the Scientific Director and the Operational Commercial Director. You will be the organizational backbone behind our leadership, ensuring day-to-day efficiency, facilitating internal coordination, and enhancing external engagement.
You will be responsible for managing their calendars, supporting high-level meetings, coordinating logistics, preparing key documents, and liaising with diverse stakeholders. In addition, you will contribute to process optimization and project tracking, helping to maintain a dynamic and mission-driven environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide high-level executive and administrative support to the Directors, including agenda management, travel coordination, and correspondence.
- Organize and prepare materials for board meetings, advisory groups, and external engagements.
- Act as the point of contact for internal communications and external inquiries addressed to the Directors.
- Track deadlines, action items, and strategic priorities to support timely decision-making.
- Coordinate logistics for meetings, workshops, and events, both onsite and virtual.
- Assist in drafting presentations, reports, and official communications.
- Support internal workflows and document management for strategic projects.
- Work closely with team leads across business development, communications, and operations to align administrative processes.
- Maintain confidentiality and a high level of professionalism in handling sensitive information.
Candidate Profile
We are looking for an organized and resourceful professional with excellent interpersonal and time-management skills. You are proactive, tech-savvy, and thrive in a dynamic, impact-driven setting.
Must-Have Qualifications
- Proven experience in an executive assistant, management support, or comparable role.
- Strong organizational skills with the ability to multitask and prioritize effectively.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills (Dutch and English).
- Experience with calendar, travel, and meeting management for senior leadership.
- Discretion, reliability, and the ability to handle confidential information. Proficiency in Microsoft Office and digital collaboration tools (e.g., Teams, SharePoint, Zoom).
Preferred Attributes
- Experience in a fast-paced, mission-driven, or research-based organization.
- The ability to work in a start-up setting where processes are not defined yet.
- Affinity with science, innovation, or ethical transition themes.
- Comfortable engaging with stakeholders from academia, government, and industry.
- Fluency in Dutch is a plus, though not required.
What We Offer
- A vital supporting role in one of the Netherlands’ leading biomedical transition initiatives.
- The opportunity to work closely with visionary leadership on a high-impact mission.
- A collaborative, interdisciplinary environment with strong societal relevance.
- Flexible working conditions and a position that offers both structure and variety.
Interested?
If this role speaks to you and you believe you can contribute to our mission, we encourage you to reach out. Please submit your CV and a brief cover letter outlining your motivation and relevant experience. To apply or learn more, please contact hr@ombion-cpbt.nl with the subject line “Executive Assistant Application – [Your Name]”.or visit Ombion Centre for Animal-free Biomedical Translation will be reviewed on a rolling basis.
Vacancy: Hands-on Communications Advisor
Location: Utrecht Science Park, The Netherlands (hybrid 50/50)
Organisation: Ombion Centre for Animal-Free Biomedical Translation
Employment Type: Parttime (0,6 fte)
Salary scale: €3.537,- to €4383,- (fulltime)
Seniority Level: Medior
Start date: Q1 2026
About Ombion Centre for Animal-Free Biomedical Translation
The Netherlands is poised to lead the transition to animal-free biomedical innovation by establishing the Ombion Centre for Animal-Free Biomedical Translation (Ombion). Ombion’s goal is to improve the biomedical translation processes while making them animal-free. This will accelerate the development of new medicines, medical devices and food ingredients that enhance human health, by replacing animal testing, which is often inaccurate and costly. This process is long, expensive, and exciting, with animal testing traditionally used to predict efficacy and safety for humans. The use of animal testing remains widespread due to several key factors: (i) animal testing is still regarded as the “gold standard”, (ii) many alternatives have not yet been validated and/or accepted, (iii) developing alternative methods requires large investments, with uncertain returns, and (iv) there is a lack of strong leadership to drive change in this polarized field. Ombion is a national centre, with a unique infrastructure at Utrecht Science Park for developing and valorising animal-free innovations and expertise. Ombion operates through four key pillars:
- Transition projects to prove that the transition to animal-free biomedical translation is effective and feasible, and to develop knowledge and methods;
- Propositions to advise, train and assist stakeholders in making the transition and adopting animal-free methods;
- Additional expertise development to strengthen the propositions;
- Spin-out activities to create business opportunities that commercialize biomedical innovations and solutions for animal-free translation internationally.
Ombion is a forward-thinking organisation committed to innovation, collaboration, and excellence. We foster a culture of inclusivity, continuous learning, and impact-driven work. Our team is composed of passionate professionals who strive to make a difference through strategic projects and partnerships.
About the role
Are you a dynamic and detail-oriented medium level communications experts with a passion for helping a relatively new NGO to grow and flourish? Then Ombion is looking for you. You will function in a small team of parttime colleagues that includes a senior, a junior, and sometimes interns. We work closely together and also work independently on our own projects. We communicate with a rich variety of internal and external partners and stakeholders though websites, newsletters, meetings, social media, video clips et cetera. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to impactful projects in a fast-paced and innovative environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Design social media and newsletter strategies and create content
- Create news releases and distribute them to intermediary partners.
- Generate interest in our activities among journalists from traditional media
- Manage our website (content, SEO, analytics)
- Manage suppliers (e.g., designer, photographer, videographer)
- Prepare and attend meetings, take notes, inform attendants, sometimes lead meetings
- Organise events
- Serve internal clients and partnerships in their communications (e.g. help create presentations or social media posts)
Qualifications
- Master’s level in Communications or a related field
- Minimum of 3 years of experience on a medium level, preferably in a multi-stakeholder environment
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
- Experience in working with websites, newsletters and social media
- Fluent and excellent in Dutch and English, both written and spoken
- Insight into and affinity with the transition to animal-free research
Desired Skills
- Analytical mindset with attention to detail
- Skilled in managing multiple communication projects simultaneously
- Able to interpret data and translate insights into actionable improvements
- Proactive in identifying communication opportunities and resolving issues
- Team player with a collaborative spirit
- Creativity: Brings fresh ideas to campaigns and content
What We Offer
- Competitive salary and benefits package
- Opportunities for professional development and career growth
- Flexible working arrangements and supportive team environment
- Engagement in meaningful projects with societal impact
Ready to make an impact?
If you are excited about this opportunity and believe your experience and competencies align with this vacancy, we’d love to hear from you. Please submit your CV and a brief cover letter outlining your motivation and relevant experience to hr@ombion-cpbt.nl with the subject line “Communications Advisor Application – [Your Name]”.
We review applications on a rolling basis, so don’t wait, apply today and become part of a team that’s shaping the future through innovation and collaboration.
Contact us:
For more information, please contact us at info@ombion-cpbt.nl
You can also follow us on LinkedIn and subscribe to our quarterly newsletter.
Postal address:
Ombion Centre for Animal-free Biomedical Translation
Yalelaan 62 (Life Sciences Incubator Building)
3584 CM Utrecht
The Netherlands
Built with Shorthand