About the Loke Centre for Trophoblast Research

What is the Loke CTR?

The Loke Centre for Trophoblast Research (Loke CTR) brings together researchers from across Cambridge to advance understanding of the placenta, early development, and the biology of pregnancy.

Our network includes approximately 30 Principal Investigators based in departments across the University of Cambridge and at affiliated research institutes, including the Babraham Institute and Wellcome Sanger Institute. The Loke Centre also welcomes researchers from across the University and its affiliated institutions whose work aligns with our Research Priorities. Researchers can apply to become members of the Loke Centre.

Our members work across stem cell biology, genetics and epigenetics, immunology, physiology, metabolism, bioengineering, clinical research and epidemiology. By connecting expertise across these fields, the Loke Centre enables researchers to investigate placental development and function from complementary perspectives and to translate discoveries between laboratory and clinical research.

Our ultimate aim is to alleviate suffering resulting from placentally-related complications of pregnancy, such as miscarriage, preeclampsia, growth restriction and stillbirth, that remain a major cause of maternal and infant morbidity and mortality worldwide. To achieve this aim, our objectives are:

1. Promote cross-disciplinary collaboration between basic and clinical scientists in support of our Research Priorities.
2. Provide the highest international standard of teaching and research training
3. Support the next generation of trophoblast researchers at a critical stage in their career
4. Act as an international resource for research on the placenta, early development, and the biology of pregnancy.

Find out more about us