Closely mimicking the vascularization, extracellular matrix, and innervation of the native cell microenvironment is challenging, but imperative for long-term cell transplantation outcomes. To achieve this for insulin-producing cells, as a treatment for Type 1 Diabetes, I investigate several strategies. Where I currently focus on how mesenchymal stem cells can modulate these factors. See my Scopus profile for more details: https://www.scopus.com/authid/detail.uri?authorId=55371949100To motivate and support others, I am a board member of the European Association for the Study of Diabetes (EASD) Academy, which aims to support early-career researchers in the diabetes field, and I teach Biomedical Sciences bachelor and master students.