The Physics of Collective Cell Dynamics and Morphogenesis

The physics of collective cell dynamics and morphogenesis is a highly interdisciplinary field that draws ideas from physics and mathematics to help understanding the development of multicellular organisms. Complementing the traditional route of biology, the perspective of cells and tissues as out-of-equilibrium materials with quantifiable physical properties offers novel insights into developmental biology, organoid dynamics and physical principles that can underlie certain diseases. In particular, by regarding the collective organisation of cells and morphogenesis as processes that are governed by both biochemical signals and mechanical forces, experimental tools and theoretical approaches from physics can contribute significantly to the mechanistic understanding of processes in living systems. These tools and approaches include the mechanical characterisation of cells and tissues, theories of active soft matter, out-of-equilibrium thermodynamics, mechano-chemical pattern formation and computational modelling. 

This workshop brings together experimental and theoretical perspectives to explore three interconnected aspects of the field: (i) force generation in cells and tissues, (ii) self-organisation and mechano-chemical regulation in multicellular systems, and (iii) their role in shaping cells and tissues during morphogenesis. 

The development of active matter theories and continuing advances in 4D live-imaging of whole embryos have significantly pushed the corresponding research in recent years. The 4-day event ‘The Physics of Collective Cell Dynamics and Morphogenesis‘ will provide a platform to showcase the latest developments and discuss ideas among researchers with diverse scientific backgrounds. We hope in particular to attract early career researchers to inspire and initiate new interdisciplinary collaborations and to further cultivate the mutually beneficial dialogue between physics and biology.

A part of the workshop will be dedicated to celebrate Prof. Julia Yeomans and honour the many contributions she has made to this field over the last decades.

This event is generously supported by the University of Oxford through the The John Fell Fund.