These innovations from Twente are shaping the future of healthcare

In Twente, technology, research and healthcare come together. With institutions such as the University of Twente and the TechMed Centre, there is a wealth of expertise in medical technology, whilst educational institutions, healthcare organisations and businesses help to advance that knowledge. This creates an environment in which new ideas can develop into applications for the healthcare sector. FlowBeams and Flux Robotics demonstrate what can result from this: from needle-free injections to magnetic robotics technology for treatments within blood vessels.

FlowBeams: needle-free injections

An injection without a metal needle: Enschede-based FlowBeams is working on this using BoldJet technology. A short laser pulse creates a very thin and fast jet of liquid. This allows substances to be administered through the skin in a controlled manner. The dose and the depth to which the liquid penetrates the skin can be precisely adjusted.

The initial applications focus on skincare and cosmetics. The company aims to apply the technology to medicines and biological substances at a later stage. FlowBeams was founded on the basis of research by UT professor David Fernández Rivas and is led by UT alumna Lea Milovich.

Flux Robotics: navigating blood vessels with greater precision

Flux Robotics develops robotic technology for complex treatments within blood vessels. During such treatments, a doctor must guide a thin guidewire through narrow or blocked blood vessels. Flux Robotics’ technology uses external magnets to guide the wire precisely through the blood vessel.

The company aims to use this to reduce the risk of damage, shorten treatment times and minimise doctors’ exposure to radiation. The technology supports the doctor and is not intended to replace them.

Flux Robotics grew out of research carried out by its founder, Christoff Heunis, at the University of Twente. The company is continuing to develop the technology from its base in Enschede.

Shaping the Future of Healthcare

Based in Twente, companies like FlowBeams and Flux Robotics are developing technology that can advance healthcare. For students, new graduates, and professionals, this means plenty of opportunities to work closely with innovative medical technology and contribute to solutions for the future of healthcare.

FlowBeams and Flux Robotics are two of the four Twente-based finalists in the KVK Innovation Top 100 2026 and are putting Twente’s medical technology in the spotlight. Voting is open through October 19. Public votes account for 20 percent of the final result. The winners will be announced on November 13.