Synaptiq’s AI Slashes Radiotherapy Planning Time with Automated Tumour and Organ Contouring

Synaptiq’s AI Slashes Radiotherapy Planning Time with Automated Tumour and Organ Contouring

(IN BRIEF) Synaptiq is streamlining radiotherapy preparation with its AI‑driven contouring software, which automates the delineation of tumours and organs at risk. Founded by Dragoș Dușe and Roxana Săbău, the Romanian startup emerged from research at Germany’s Cancer Research Centre and now serves over 80 percent of domestic clinics. Early back‑end demos proved more accurate than manual methods, earning clinical buy‑in. Following EBRD funding and TaiwanBusiness support, Synaptiq developed prompt‑based tumour contouring models for breast and head‑and‑neck cancer. As a participant in the EBRD’s Star Venture programme, Synaptiq is finalising certifications, forging European partnerships and preparing a new funding round to expand its life‑saving AI solution.

(PRESS RELEASE) LONDON, 29-Jul-2025 — /EuropaWire/ — Synaptiq, a Romanian healthtech startup powered by AI, is revolutionising cancer care by automating the time‑intensive “contouring” process that oncologists use to map tumours and critical organs before radiotherapy. The company’s patented algorithm—originating from research by co‑founder Dragoș Dușe at Germany’s national Cancer Research Centre—now supports over 80 percent of Romanian clinics and is poised for expansion across Europe with backing from the EBRD.

“When radiotherapy planning demands precision and speed, every saved hour counts,” says co‑founder Roxana Săbău. “Our AI contours organs‑at‑risk in seconds, freeing doctors to focus on personalised treatment decisions.” Childhood friends Roxana and Dragoș conceived the idea in Heidelberg—she as a biomedical student, he as a research physician—and quickly assembled a founding team of top AI engineers and medical experts. Early demonstrations at leading European oncology conferences showed Synaptiq’s backend algorithm producing contours more accurately than manual methods, shifting clinician scepticism into genuine interest.

In response to growing demand for tumour delineation, Synaptiq pivoted from organ‑at‑risk to prompt‑based tumour contouring. Doctors now outline a tumour on a single CT slice, and the AI propagates that outline through the full 3D volume—drastically reducing planning times. With support from the EBRD and the TaiwanBusiness – EBRD Technical Cooperation Fund, Synaptiq built specialised breast and head‑and‑neck contouring models using curated CT and MRI datasets. The company has also joined the EBRD’s Star Venture programme, receiving mentorship and preparing for certification, additional fundraising and clinical roll‑outs across Europe.

“We built a breakthrough tool on a shoestring budget—something competitors spent millions to develop,” Roxana reflects. “Now, as our technology reaches new markets, our focus remains laser‑sharp: deliver precise, reliable AI that empowers clinicians to save lives.”

Media Contact:

Stasha Igrutinovic
Email: media@ebrd.com

SOURCE: EBRD