Who are we?

We are a group of bright young entrepreneurs with a dream to make a difference in the world through biotechnology. Since 2022, we have been working on our idea together, officially founding Aestuarium in October 2023, and have been going strong ever since.

With our robust background in the sciences, we aim to revolutionize water purification and desalination using innovative biotechnology. We are committed to addressing the global water scarcity crisis by providing an affordable and efficient water treatment solution that ensures access to clean, safe water for everyone. Through advanced research, strategic partnerships, and an unwavering environmental focus, we strive to make a significant and lasting impact on communities facing water scarcity. Our relentless pursuit of innovation and dedication to sustainability drive us to envision a future where reliable access to this vital resource is a universal reality.

Meet the innovative minds behind the startup…

As Aestuarium’s inspiring Chief Executive Officer, Ani is responsible for overseeing Aestuarium’s overall strategy and ensuring the effective execution of its mission. As a founding member, Ani has been instrumental in establishing Aestuarium’s strategic vision, forging critical partnerships, and driving the development and deployment of the company’s biodesalination technology.
Ani holds a BSc in Sciences with a focus on Molecular Biology from Maastricht University and has a strong background in biotechnology. Before establishing Aestuarium, Ani interned at the cardiology stem cell lab, where he gained hands-on experience in innovative research. Ani is now taking a gap year, fully dedicated to leading Aestuarium to revolutionize sustainable water solutions.
anirudh.rajesh@aestuarium.nl

As Aestuarium’s innovative Chief Technology Officer, Mathis leads the development of Aestuarium’s biodesalination technology, focusing on genetics and coordinating efforts among R&D departments to ensure seamless integration of all components. A founding member, Mathis has been instrumental in designing, building, and testing the company’s innovative platform.
Mathis holds a Bachelor’s degree in biology from Maastricht University with a strong background in synthetic biology and genetics. After taking a gap year to work full-time on Aestuarium last year, Mathis is now pursuing a Master’s in Molecular and Cellular Life Sciences at Utrecht University, further enhancing his technical expertise to advance Aestuarium’s goals while part-time working on developing Aestuarium’s technology.
mathis.benharira@aestuarium.nl

As Aestuarium’s diligent Chief Operating Officer, Neha organizes, manages, and ensures all activities within Aestuarium align with its mission and vision. She has been instrumental in establishing operational frameworks that foster collaboration and promote the effective development of Aestuarium’s proof of concept.
With a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry from Maastricht University, Neha combines her expertise in biochemistry and chemistry to implement reliable bio-containment methods and streamline operations. During her undergraduate internship, she focused on proteomic analysis of bacterial biofilms. After working full-time on Aestuarium last year, Neha is now pursuing a Master’s in Drug Innovation at Utrecht University while managing Aestuarium’s operations.
neha.silva@aestuarium.nl

As Aestuarium’s meticulous Safety and Compliance Lead, Lara ensures the development and management of the technology’s safety systems but also oversees Aestuarium's branding efforts. A founding member, she has been instrumental in implementing robust safety protocols and has been establishing Aestuarium’s brand identity since 2022.
Lara holds a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Maastricht University and has a background in biotechnology and synthetic biology. Currently, she is pursuing a Master’s in Cellular and Molecular Biotechnology at Wageningen University, where she continues to refine her expertise to enhance Aestuarium’s safety systems while part-time working on safety protocols and keeping Aestuarium’s brand up to date.
lara.anderegg@aestuarium.nl

As Aestuarium’s resourceful Product Developer, Camilla is responsible for overseeing the engineering aspects of Aestuarium’s technology, ensuring a functional and efficient final product. She plays a pivotal role in driving the development of the first desalination plant and contributing to a safe and functional biocontainment method.
Camilla earned her Bachelor of Science in Biology from Maastricht University and has a background in biotechnology and molecular biology. She interned at IHMA Europe and A*STAR Singapore before joining Aestuarium as part of the initial team. Camilla is now pursuing a Master’s in Microbiology and Immunology at ETH Zürich while part-time working on developing plans for Aestuarium’s first desalination plant.
camilla.micheli@aestuarium.nl

As Aestuarium’s strategic Financial Director, Sinan manages Aestuarium’s financial operations, including strategic financial planning, budgeting, compliance, and fundraising. Since joining the team after being inspired by the idea pitched at the Maastricht University Challenge, Sinan has established financial reporting standards and built relationships with cost-efficient tax accountants.
Sinan holds a Bachelor’s degree in International Business and a Master’s degree in Financial Economics from Maastricht University. With a background in financial economics, Sinan also works at a management consultancy, bringing valuable expertise to support Aestuarium’s financial stability.
sinan.haciibrahimoglu@aestuarium.nl