Barbara Nebe

Prof. Dr. Barbara Nebe is a faculty member at the Institute of Cell Biology, University of Rostock, where she serves as the Head of the Cell Biology Unit at University Medicine Rostock. She holds the academic rank of Associate Professor (apl. Professorin) and is actively involved in interdisciplinary research in biomaterials, cell-material interactions, and plasma medicine. Her work bridges medicine, engineering, and materials science, with a strong focus on implant biocompatibility and regenerative medicine.

• Academic Rank: Associate Professor
• Department: Institute of Cell Biology
• University: University of Rostock
• Research Focus: Cell-Material Interaction, Plasma Functionalization, Osteoblast Behavior, Biomaterials

Her research interests center on how physical and chemical surface modifications of biomaterials influence cellular behavior, particularly osteoblast adhesion, differentiation, and signaling. She investigates the role of surface topography, plasma polymerization, and nanoscale features in modulating cell responses, with applications in orthopedics, dentistry, and regenerative medicine. She also explores the biological effects of phytoestrogens and plant extracts in cancer and regenerative contexts.

Her recent publications demonstrate a strong trend in plasma-based surface engineering of titanium and zirconia implants, 3D scaffold design, computational modeling of nutrient transport, and antimicrobial strategies. The work spans experimental cell biology, materials characterization, and in vivo validation, showing a highly interdisciplinary approach. Key themes include osteoconductivity, anti-infective coatings, and mechanotransduction.

Scientific awards received include the Joachim-Jungius-Förderpreis, multiple poster awards from the German Society for Biomaterials, and a best lecture award. She has been recognized internationally for her contributions to biomaterials and plasma medicine.

She has led and participated in numerous DFG-funded projects such as GRK welisa and SPP 322, focusing on implant-biosystem interactions. She has also been active in scientific service, serving on the board of the German Society for Biomaterials (DGBM), the steering committee of Campus PlasmaMed, and as a co-organizer of major international conferences like THERMEC and E-MRS.

She leads a research group focused on cellular adhesion and stem cell biology, with laboratory activities centered on advanced microscopy, surface functionalization, and 3D cell culture systems. Her team collaborates closely with materials scientists, plasma physicists, and clinicians to develop next-generation bioactive implants.