10. October 2025

Ideas That Become Reality: how the Ideas Competition opens doors Ideas That Become Reality: how the Ideas Competition opens doors

Researcher Yaroslav Zaplatnikov talks about his experiences / Call for application for the next round is now open

It all started with an idea: to develop a reliable, standardised, body-like system for producing 3D cell models for use in preclinical studies. Researcher Yaroslav Zaplatnikov was among the winners of the Transfer Centre enaCom's 2024 Ideas Competition with this concept. The project “Cytosphere X” has now successfully secured a Go-Bio Initial grant from the BMFTR to further develop and validate the prototype. In the interview, the initiator explains how the idea came about, what support enaCom provided, and offers tips for participants in the ideas competition.

Researcher Yaroslav Zaplatnikov
Researcher Yaroslav Zaplatnikov © Barbara Frommann/Uni Bonn
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What motivated you to take part in the Ideas Competition?

The networking aspect motivated me the most. I expected to meet many like-minded people who think outside the box and are willing to improve and optimise the systems around them. That's exactly what I found at the event!

How did you come up with your idea at first place?

I have always been passionate about space ever since I was a child. When I started visiting space conferences, I discovered that, in order to go into space, we need miniaturised, automated technologies that are robust enough to perform biological experiments in microgravity. This inspired the development of compact, automated cell cultivation systems for use in the pre-clinical field.

What did you gain from the competition?

Among others, I have found two great mentors: a former director of a major pharmaceutical company and a representative of an investment firm.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to take part in the ideas competition?

Let the excellent enaCom team advise you. They will help you transform your ideas into a clear and concise pitch!

You have until 10 November 2025 to submit your sketch to Transfer Centre enaCom's Ideas Competition. We are looking for ideas and projects that could have a positive impact on society, whether in technology, social innovation, sustainability, or other areas. enaCom´s weekly online consultation sessions on Wednesdays from 9 to 10 a.m. can help you develop your ideas and outlines. Simply dial in here.

You can find highlights from the 2024 Ideas Competition final here.

Dr. Alexander Küsshauer
Start-up Coach

kuesshauer@verwaltung.uni-bonn.de
+49 228 73-62026

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