BioMed X establishes women’s health research accelerator in Heidelberg
BioMed X has launched XFem Labs, a dedicated women’s health research and development accelerator at its Heidelberg facility, marking a strategic expansion of the institute’s translational research portfolio. The initiative, backed by a $2 million grant from the Gates Foundation, will focus on addressing critical gaps in women’s healthcare, with particular emphasis on accessible contraceptive technologies for low- and middle-income regions.
The accelerator’s inaugural project centres on developing non-hormonal, female-controlled contraceptive methods. This research responds to persistent barriers faced by 257 million women worldwide who lack adequate access to contraception. Current hormonal options frequently produce adverse effects, including altered bleeding patterns, contributing to elevated discontinuation rates amongst users.
Target-driven approach to contraceptive innovation
The XFem Labs programme seeks proposals exploring novel biological targets, molecular mechanisms, and delivery systems for both continuous and on-demand contraception. Selected researchers will undergo intensive training at BioMed X before establishing a research team in Heidelberg. The application deadline is 7 December 2025, with submissions accepted through the BioMed X Career Space platform.
BioMed X operates within the academic frameworks of the University of Heidelberg and Yale University whilst maintaining direct connections to pharmaceutical research and development facilities. This positioning enables the institute to bridge translational gaps between fundamental research and clinical application.
“Our joint goal with the Gates Foundation is to create a significant impact on the lives and health of women world-wide,” said Dr Christian Tidona, chief executive officer of BioMed X. “Together with an international network of top experts and key opinion leaders, we will jointly build and mentor new outstanding research teams who will strive to solve some of the most pressing challenges in women’s health.”
The accelerator model combines global talent identification with focused incubation support, aiming to transform early-stage research into scalable therapeutic solutions.
For more information, visit: https://career.bmedx.com/call/2025-XFL-C01
