On 22 September 2026, Prof. Valerie Wilson from the University of Edinburgh delivered a Eurolife Distinguished Lecture at Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC), entitled “Grow a backbone! How do axial progenitors fuel axial development?” The lecture attracted a large audience of researchers and students, filling the lecture hall.

In her lecture, Prof. Wilson presented recent advances in understanding the role of neuromesodermal progenitors (NMPs) in vertebrate axial development. She explored how these cells contribute to the formation of the spinal cord and musculoskeletal tissues, highlighting the roles of SOX2 and Brachyury/TBXT in regulating neural and mesodermal differentiation. Her presentation also addressed how NMPs interact with neighbouring cells to coordinate tissue formation during embryonic development.

The event was hosted by Prof. Micha Drukker of Leiden University and Dr Anna Alemany of LUMC and was connected to the PhD thesis defence of Yuting Wang, for which Prof. Wilson served as a member of the examining committee.

The lecture provided an excellent opportunity for scientific exchange and reflected Eurolife’s commitment to promoting research excellence and collaboration across its partner institutions.

Eurolife extends its sincere thanks to Prof. Valerie Wilson, Prof. Micha Drukker, Dr Anna Alemany and Leiden University Medical Center for their contributions to this successful event.

Pictured: Prof. Micha Drukker and Prof. Valerie Wilson.