This interdisciplinary initiative is led by Prof. Andreas A. Müller and PD Dr. Benito Benitez from the Facial and Cranial Anomalies Research Group at the University of Basel, in collaboration with Prof. Barbara Solenthaler from ETH Zurich's Department of Computer Science. 

The funding builds on five years of successful collaboration through joint SNSF and BRCCH projects. The Facial and Cranial Anomalies Research Group, based at the Department of Biomedical Engineering and the Department of Clinical Research, will continue its work at the intersection of medicine, artificial intelligence, and computer-assisted modeling.

The project aims to develop patient-specific digital twins for children with cleft lip and palate and other craniofacial malformations. Using artificial intelligence, medical imaging data, 3D scans, and photographs will be integrated to create virtual 3D models of the face, palate, and skull.

These models are intended to support diagnostics, surgical planning, and long-term evaluation of treatment outcomes. In the long term, the technology could help improve clinical decision-making, reduce invasive examinations, and further personalize care for children with craniofacial malformations.

The Department's extend its warmest congratulations to Prof. Andreas Müller, PD Dr. Benito Benitez, and all researchers involved on this outstanding achievement.