Institute of Physiology

Organisation

About the Lab

Who We Are

Founded in 2005 as part of the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Maribor, the Institute of Physiology is dedicated to advancing fundamental and translational research in physiology. Since its establishment, our members have addressed key open questions in the field, with a particular focus on the physiology of pancreatic beta cells and their role in health and disease.

In parallel with our research activities, we play an active role in teaching physiology to undergraduate and graduate students of medicine and dental medicine. Education and research are deeply intertwined at our institute, and we view both as essential to scientific and societal progress.

We value openness, curiosity, and collaboration. Our institute maintains strong connections with academic partners worldwide and is always eager to engage in new scientific ventures. If you are interested in our work or potential collaboration, we warmly invite you to get in touch.

Research

Our primary research focus lies in diabetes and pancreatic islet physiology. A central methodological pillar of our work is the Acute Pancreatic Tissue Slice approach, which enables the simultaneous study of functional dynamics across large populations of cells while preserving their native microenvironment.By combining advanced experimental techniques with state-of-the-art data analysis and modeling, we aim to uncover the principles of intercellular communication and collective behavior in endocrine tissues. Through this integrative approach, we seek to contribute to a deeper understanding of disease mechanisms and identify potential paths toward improved therapeutic strategies.

Education

Education is a core mission of our institute. We are committed to transferring scientific knowledge and critical thinking skills to the next generation of physicians, researchers, and health professionals. All members of our team are actively involved in teaching physiology at the University of Maribor, contributing to undergraduate and postgraduate study programs.

Collaboration

Scientific progress thrives on collaboration. Our institute actively cooperates with research groups, faculties, and institutes both locally and internationally. These partnerships span experimental research, methodological development, and educational activities.

People

Our Team

Andraž Stožer

Team Leader • Ph.D. • Biomedical technology

Prof. dr. Andraž Stožer, PhD is the head of the Institute of Physiology at the Faculty of Medicine, University of Maribor, where he leads research and academic activities in physiology, endocrinology, and systems biology. He is a medical doctor and researcher with a strong background in the physiology of pancreatic islets and mechanisms underlying diabetes, combining experimental and analytical approaches in his work. In addition to his leadership role at the institute, he is also actively involved in teaching and mentoring students in physiology at the University of Maribor. His contributions include numerous scientific publications and participation in collaborations aimed at advancing both basic understanding and translational applications in metabolic research.

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