About Us
At Ex Situ Labs, we combine science and technology to reconstruct the past and present and bring nature to life on a different level. From full skeletal reconstructions both in 3D and real life and other natural history replicas, to 3D scanning, printing, molding and more. We deliver precise, detailed results for museums, researchers, educators, creative industries and movie productions, not to forget anyone else that wants a replica in their home.
Our Story
My name is Colijn, and I founded Ex Situ Labs in 2024 after several years of working at Naturalis Biodiversity Center. During my time there, I worked on projects such as the reconstruction of the Triceratops horridus Herd and Prognathodon Bèr. As those projects wrapped up, I realized I wanted to create something of my own, something that would allow me to take on work independently, while still being able to collaborate with trusted peers when needed.
Ex Situ Labs is the result of that decision. As a one-person company, I manage every step of a project, from research and concept development to design/sculpting and final production. For larger or more specialized work, I can collaborate with peers with whom I've had the pleasure of working with at Naturalis. Each running their own company. Together we form a flexible partnership that brings additional expertise into play when a project requires it.
This structure keeps Ex Situ Labs efficient and focused.
The goal of Ex Situ Labs is simple: to bring life, both extant and extinct, into more hands through scientifically accurate reconstructions, replicas, and props that are accessible to everyone.
Meet The Team
I'm a biologist, 3D modeler and artist. With over 8 years of 3D modeling experience and a degree in biology, I have made creating 3D reconstructions of both ancient life and modern life my professional focus. Apart from 3D modeling and research, I also spend my time painting our replicas
I am currently studying bird anatomy via disections and various other methods, like (Micro)CT scanning and segmentation.
Colijn J. Dijkers
Owner, Biologist, 3D Modeler and Reconstruction Specialist
I hold a BSc in Biology and an MSc in Forensic Science, with a deep passion for nature and (extinct) animals. As a professional fossil preparator, I take great pleasure in the rewarding process of carefully uncovering, preserving,
and restoring ancient specimens. I also enjoy using 3D modeling to recreate animals in their natural habitats. In addition, I find joy in 3D printing and crafting custom mounts for my creations.
Erwin Zethof
Biologist, Paleontological Preparator and 3D Modeler
I hold a BSc and MSc in movement sciences and am currently pursuing a PhD in musculoskeletal biomechanics. My research is focused on how animals move, which has given me hands-on dissection experience with a variety species, including ostriches, crocodiles, giraffes, and gorillas. I specialize in musculoskeletal anatomy and 3D modeling, and I've designed lifesize skeletal mounts of Tyrannosaurus rex and Triceratops that are showcased in museums across Europe and Asia.
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Pasha van Bijlert
Evolutionary biomechanist and anatomy expert
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Ydnas Louisa
Animator
