Structural Organization
Si-M Members
The scientific core of Si-M is formed by its members. Membership criteria are defined in the regulations, primarily encompassing scientists permanently affiliated with Si-M, as well as those actively involved in Si-M projects and predominantly located within Si-M for the project's duration. Additional individuals can become Si-M members upon request. Members elect 12 Si-M Council representatives (6 from TU and 6 from Charité), who, in turn, select each a spokesperson for TU and Charité. The Council decides on Si-M project selection, admissions, exits, and memberships.
Si-M Spokespersons
Andreas Thiel and Roland Lauster are the initiators of the research building supported by federal and state governments, and they are the spokespersons for 'Der Simulierte Mensch'. Andreas Thiel is a full professor at the Berlin Institute of Health at Charité - Universitätsmedizin, specializing in Regenerative Immunology and Aging. Roland Lauster was the Head of the Department of Medical Biotechnology at Technische Universität Berlin and is a Co-Founder of several biotech startups.
Since 2021, Roland Lauster has been emeritus. We have also welcomed Sina Bartfeld, his academic successor, as an additional spokesperson to support the team.
Research Support
Strategic and administrative support for the Council and its spokespersons is provided by Scientific Coordinators (1 each from TU and Charité) overseeing the Si-M Office and central Si-M personnel (science management, Si-M facilities, lab management). Medical biotechnologists Jennifer Rosowski and Shirin Kadler serve as scientific coordinators at the Si-M office, where they oversee research projects, write grant proposals, manage resources, facilitate communication among researchers and the public, and ensure the efficient operation of scientific activities.
Lab Management
The technicians Manuela Dingeldey and Beate Kruse support the Si-M with their expertise.
They will ensure the smooth running of the laboratory activities. It involves organizing, planning and monitoring all aspects of the laboratory, resource management, quality control, safety and regulatory compliance.
Steering Committee
A Steering Committee, comprising the financial and scientific leadership of TU Berlin and Charité, advises and makes decisions on Si-M funding. It confirms Council decisions regarding strategic direction and personnel for Si-M facilities, based on Council reports and considering the scientific board's recommendations. The Steering Committee, with input from the Advisory Board, holds the right to object to Council decisions. Quarterly meetings are held with Si-M spokespersons and Scientific Coordinators.
Scientific Advisory Board
An external board of seven international experts constitutes the Si-M Advisory Board, appointed by the Steering Committee for a three-year term upon the Council's recommendation. The Board advises and supports the Council, acting independently. It may provide opinions on Council decisions, especially regarding strategic and resource planning, upon the Steering Committee's request. The Board typically meets annually, choosing a chairperson from its members.
Due to diverse organisational structures and affiliations of research groups, different modes of occupancy exist for TU Berlin and Charité within the research facility. Si-M expressly aims to provide independent research opportunities, particularly for emerging researchers within Si-M.
