Unique Collaboration

In 2016, Dr. de Bakker expressed a vision to provide the world with scientifically accurate educational 3D prints. This innovative idea earned her the prestigious Innovation Award from the University of Amsterdam in 2019. This award propelled the creation of the first 3D printed embryos, utilizing a multicolor sandstone 3D printing technique. Unfortunately, these prints proved too fragile for educational purposes. For years, Dr. de Bakker sought solutions to create 3D prints using other materials, but achieving a multicolor approach remained a challenge with available 3D printing techniques.

In 2022, after a newspaper article about the use of Micro-CT in imaging human embryos, an email from cirp GmbH appeared in Dr. de Bakker’s inbox. This family-run company from Heimsheim, Germany, originally focused on 3D printing car parts, offered their decades of experience in 3D printing to help find the right technique for creating durable 3D prints for educational purposes. Thanks to the dedication of their exceptional technical team, who spent years optimizing versions of our models with the latest printing technologies, we are proud to offer our current range of 3D prints through our webshop.

The fact that the proceeds from this academic spin-off company fully benefit Dr. de Bakker’s research means that placing an order through our webshop not only enhances your education and knowledge but also supports vital research into miscarriages and birth defects.