BioMed X announced the launch of XFem Labs, a pioneering Women’s health R&D accelerator in Heidelberg, Germany.

Supported by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, this new initiative aims to establish a world-class innovation hub dedicated to advancing early-stage research and developing scalable solutions that improve women’s health globally—particularly for those in low- and middle-income countries.

Bridging the gap between academia and industry, XFem Labs will foster collaboration between researchers from the University of Heidelberg, Yale University, and R&D teams from leading pharmaceutical companies. This approach enables the translation of cutting-edge scientific discoveries into tangible healthcare solutions.

The first project under the XFem Labs accelerator is titled “New Strategies for Female-Controlled Non-Hormonal Contraception.” Despite the availability of various contraceptive methods, an estimated 257 million women worldwide still face barriers to access.

Hormonal contraceptives, while effective, can cause side effects such as irregular bleeding patterns, often leading to discontinuation. There remains an urgent need for innovative, non-hormonal, female-controlled contraceptive options that are safe, effective, and accessible.

The inaugural XFem Labs call for proposals invites scientists to explore novel biological targets, molecular mechanisms, or delivery modalities for both continuous and on-demand non-hormonal contraception. Selected applicants will be invited to participate in an intensive boot camp at BioMed X, culminating in the incubation of a new interdisciplinary research team based in Heidelberg.

“Our joint goal with the Gates Foundation is to make a meaningful and lasting impact on the lives and health of women worldwide,” said Dr. Christian Tidona, Founder and CEO of BioMed X. “Through our global network of experts and mentors, we aim to build and guide outstanding research teams dedicated to solving some of the most pressing challenges in women’s health.”