ATiO Podcast

#6 Aylvin Dias & Benjamin Kibalo - ATiO Strategic Partner: dsm-firmenich

Today we are honored to host two distinguished guests from dsm-firmenich, a global innovator in nutrition, health, and beauty. Joining us are Aylvin Dias, a leading expert in materials science and performance solutions, and Benjamin Kibalo, a pioneer in cutting-edge applications, medical device commercialization, and sustainability. As innovators in nutrition, health, and beauty, dsm-firmenich reinvents, manufactures, and combines vital nutrients, flavors, and fragrances for the world’s growing population to thrive. With their comprehensive range of solutions, with natural and renewable ingredients and renowned science and technology capabilities, they work to create what is essential for life, desirable for consumers, and more sustainable for the planet. dsm-firmenich is a Swiss company with dual headquarters in Kaiseraugst, Switzerland and Maastricht, Netherlands, with operations in almost 60 countries and revenues of more than €12 billion. With a diverse, worldwide team of nearly 30,000 employees, they bring progress to life every day, everywhere, for billions of people.   In a significant development, dsm-firmenich, has become an official Foundation Partner of the ATiO. This partnership underscores the company’s commitment to advancing sustainable solutions in the industry.   In this episode, we’ll delve into the future of materials, innovation, and sustainability, exploring how dsm-firmenich, is shaping a healthier, more sustainable world.    Aylvin Días is a Ph.D. chemist who joined the organization in 1996, back when it was still DSM. Just a few years later, in 1999, he helped establish the biomedical research program, becoming one of the founding figures of what is now the Biomedical division. Throughout his career, Aylvin has led pioneering developments, including 3D-printable resins and the ComfortCoat® medical coatings platform. He went on to establish the drug delivery group, overseeing the technology transfer of the polyesteramide polymer platform into DSM. Holding over 40 patents and an extensive publication record, Aylvin has also served on numerous boards and advisory panels, including the University Medical Centre Utrecht, Biointerfaces International, and the POLY Division of the American Chemical Society. In 2015, he was President of the Surfaces in Biomaterials Foundation in the United States. Today, his research focuses on bio-interfaces of medical biomaterials, fostering strategic academic collaborations to expand the dsm-firmenich biomaterials portfolio across orthopaedic, vascular, and drug-delivery applications. Outside the lab, Aylvin enjoys cooking, mountain biking, and traveling. Benjamin Kibalo serves as Manager of Emerging Growth Strategic Marketing within the Biomedical division of dsm-firmenich. With nearly 25 years in biotechnology, he has dedicated his career to advancing the medical device sector and is widely recognized for his expertise in naturally derived biomaterials. His work has contributed to the success of dozens of commercialized products in wound care, general surgery, and orthopaedic reconstruction. Over the past eight years, Benjamin has expanded his leadership across multiple fronts — from securing critical raw materials and engaging with regulatory bodies to collaborating with academia, industry consortia, and student programs that inspire the next generation of innovators. Passionate about the intersection of technology and medicine, he focuses on translating proven biomaterials into new frontiers such as cell and gene therapy, while also exploring 3D printing and patient-customized implants. Beyond his professional life, Benjamin enjoys additive manufacturing, electronics design, music, and maintaining a lively home for his family of six.

#5 Prof. David Hunter - Osteoarthritis

In this episode of the ATiO Podcast, we are honored to welcome Prof. David Hunter, a world-renowned leader in osteoarthritis research. As the Florance and Cope Chair of Rheumatology at the University of Sydney and Editor-in-Chief of Osteoarthritis and Cartilage, Professor Hunter has been instrumental in shaping our modern understanding of osteoarthritis. Our conversation explores the complexity of OA—from disease mechanisms and current treatment strategies to the scientific and clinical challenges that have slowed therapeutic innovation. Professor Hunter shares insights into why osteoarthritis should be understood as a heterogeneous group of conditions, rather than a single disease entity. We also discuss the role of prevention, lifestyle factors, emerging technologies, and international collaboration in advancing OA care. This episode offers a concise yet compelling look at how rigorous science and global cooperation are redefining the future of osteoarthritis management.

#4 Prof. Ivan Martin - Tissue Engineering

In this episode of the ATiO Podcast, we have the honor to welcome Prof. Ivan Martin, a world-renowned expert in tissue engineering and translational research. As Chair of the Department of Biomedicine at the University of Basel, Prof. Martin has spent over two decades advancing innovative solutions for musculoskeletal repair. Our conversation dives into the intersection of basic science, clinical application, and entrepreneurship, highlighting the journey from lab bench to operating room. Prof. Martin shares key insights from his visionary work in cartilage regeneration, as well as the challenges of bridging academia and industry. We also discuss the broader impact of regenerative therapies on healthcare systems, the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration, and the future of patient-specific treatment strategies. This episode offers a compelling look at how visionary research is transforming the landscape of orthopaedic care.

#3 Ronja Senn - ZuriMED Technologies: ATiO Early-Stage Company 2024

In this episode of the ATiO Podcast, we delve into the pioneering work of ZuriMED Technologies, a Swiss-based company specializing in advanced medical technologies for soft tissue repair. Founded in 2015 as a spin-off from the University of Zurich and ETH Zurich, ZuriMED has rapidly emerged at the forefront of orthopaedic innovation. We are joined by Ronja Senn, Head of Sales at ZuriMED, who shares insights into the company’s mission to develop breakthrough technologies that enhance surgical outcomes and improve patient recovery. Under the leadership of Xiang Li, ZuriMED has introduced the Surgical-Fiberlock™ technology, a minimally invasive solution designed to revolutionize soft tissue repair.   In 2024, ZuriMED’s innovative approach earned them the prestigious ATiO Early-Stage Pitch Contest award, recognizing their significant contributions to the field. Ronja discusses the journey leading to this achievement, the challenges they’ve faced, and ZuriMED’s exciting plans for the future.

#2 Emil Billbäck - Leadership and Innovation at BONESUPPORT

In this episode of the ATiO Podcast, we delve into the professional journey of Emil Billbäck, Board Member of the ATiO Foundation and CEO of Bonesupport. With a rich history in the life sciences industry, Emil shares his experiences from previous leadership roles at BSN Medical and Essity, and discusses what inspired him to join Bonesupport in 2018. He elucidates Bonesupport’s core vision and mission, highlighting the company’s contributions to the field of orthobiologics. We explore the CERAMENT™ technology, which forms the backbone of Bonesupport’s product offerings and its significant impact on both surgeons and patients. Emil also sheds light on the company’s major milestones and listeners will gain insights into the upcoming innovations in orthopaedics that excite Emil, as well as the challenges and successes he has encountered during his tenure. Join host Noorjan Saidi for an engaging conversation with Emil Billbäck, and discover how BONESUPPORT is planning to revolutionize muskuloskeletal care! Note: This episode was recorded before Emil Billbäck joined the board of the ATiO Foundation.