Translated with ChatGPT:
In the Hot Seat, Amelie Reigl (@dieWissenschaftlerin) not only talks about her leadership role at TigerShark Science, where she develops human skin models, but also explains why communicating science and its processes is so important.
Dear Amelie, thank you for answering our questions. You have taken on a new position at Fraunhofer ISC TLZ-RT. Can you tell us about the goals and challenges of this project and its significance for you and society?
In my new role at Fraunhofer ISC TLZ-RT, the focus is on developing complex skin models that can reduce the need for animal testing in research. Our goal is to create realistic human skin models that are not only ethically sound but also provide scientifically reliable results. The biggest challenge is to standardize and scale these models so they can truly enhance skin research in the cosmetics and pharmaceutical industries.
Fraunhofer is often a bridge between fundamental research and application. Are there any existing or upcoming practical collaborations? If so, which ones?
Yes, definitely! We work closely with pilot customers from the cosmetics and pharmaceutical industries to tailor our skin models to their specific needs. These collaborations are crucial to ensure that the models are not just effective in the lab but also in real-world applications. One example is the use of our skin models to test hair growth products in cosmetics or to study side effects in drug development with a leading global pharmaceutical company. We also plan to expand partnerships in the field of personalized medicine to develop innovative therapies for skin diseases.
Many people know you as “@dieWissenschaftlerin” on platforms like TikTok, where you have over 400,000 followers. What inspired you to start this kind of science communication? What role does science communication play for you, and how does it fit into your daily life?
Science communication is a true passion of mine. I want to show that research is not abstract or elitist but something that affects our daily lives. TikTok and other platforms offer the opportunity to explain complex topics in a simple and engaging way. It’s a great way to inspire young people to take an interest in science. For me, it’s all about balance: my daily life revolves around my research, but communication is key to making this research visible and accessible to the public. With my format “A Day in the Life of a Scientist,” I take my followers into the lab and show them what my work as a researcher looks like.
Do you think there should be more communication about science or applications from, for example, startups? What benefits would this bring?
Absolutely! Science and innovation often remain within expert circles, even though the public has a strong interest in them. More communication would help break down prejudices, create transparency, and build trust in scientific advancements. Especially for startups, clear communication could not only raise awareness of their solutions but also attract potential partners and investors. At the same time, it gives society the opportunity to benefit from new technologies and actively engage with the innovation landscape.
Is there anything else you would like to share with our readers?
Science thrives on curiosity and collaboration. My advice to everyone: question things, learn, and let yourself be inspired—whether by research, technology, or the small wonders of everyday life. And if you’re wondering how you can contribute yourself: stay curious!
Amelie Reigl (30) is a biologist and project leader at TigerShark Science, a startup that grows human skin models in the lab to reduce animal testing. Together with her team, she is planning a spin-off to develop innovative alternatives for medicine and cosmetics.
Alongside her research, she runs the science communication platform @dieWissenschaftlerin on TikTok and Instagram, where she engages over 400,000 followers with insights into research and the daily life of a scientist.
