BUA Institution

Humboldt Universität zu Berlin

Description of research

I develop computer models—digital twins—that simulate how our bodies work. These models help personalize treatments, predict how we respond to medications, and support better healthcare decisions by combining biology, data, and AI.

Where in the world has your career been largely based until now?

Berlin, Germany

Why Berlin?

Berlin is where history meets innovation—a vibrant cultural hub that fuels cutting-edge research and interdisciplinary collaboration.

What fascinates you about your research area?

I’m fascinated by the ability to translate the human body into formulas—capturing its complexity through computer models. With digital twins, we can already start reflecting each person’s unique biology, bringing us closer to truly individualized healthcare in the near future.

How will your research change the world?

Digital twins offer a new way to understand each person’s unique biology. My research supports more personalized and precise healthcare by using these virtual models to simulate how individuals respond to treatments—helping doctors make better-informed decisions.
The vision: one twin for every patient.

What is your preferred way to communicate your research to the broader public or other specific sectors beyond academia? Where can we see, hear or read you next?

A great place to start is our lab website: [livermetabolism.com](https://livermetabolism.com). For a deeper dive into our projects and open-source tools, check out our GitHub: [github.com/matthiaskoenig](https://github.com/matthiaskoenig). And if you’d like to connect or collaborate, you’ll find us on LinkedIn: [Matthias König](https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthias-koenig/).

What did you want to be when you grow up?

I wanted to become a medical doctor. But along the way, I discovered the power of computer models—the ability to build and interact with virtual representations of the human body that can impact real-world healthcare. That blend of science and simulation hooked me.

Rumour has it that nobody is perfect. Which skill or ability have you really had to work on in your career (or are you perhaps still working on)?

Science communication. I love diving into the hard science, but I’ve come to realize that real impact happens when we can share our work clearly. This outreach is a perfect example—translating complex research into something meaningful for a broader audience is a skill I’m still learning and valuing more every day.