VUB Fellows 2023

VUB FELLOWS 2023

CONNECTING ACADEMIA AND SOCIETY

VUB FELLOWS 2023

Akira Hiruma

Aurianne Lambert

Axel Desmedt

Brieuc Vandamme

Bruno Humblet

Dirk Roosendans

Eric Michiels

Ilse Ooghe

Ingrid de Jonghe

Kathy Lindekens

Koen Pelleriaux

Koen Vermout

Lotte Vermeir

Marc Michils

Olivier Slosse

Roel Van der Meulen

Ruth Devenyns

Simon De Boeck

Stefaan Verhulst

Steven Engels

Tania Dekens

Tom Naegels

Willem Bongers-Dek

OUR SOCIETY NEEDS SCIENCE THAT BENEFITS THE COMMUNITY: SCIENCE FOR THE PUBLIC GOOD. AS SCIENTISTS, AS A UNIVERSITY COMMUNITY, AND IN THE TRADITION OF THE ENLIGHTENMENT, WE MUST DO EVERYTHING IN OUR POWER NOT

ONLY TO SECURE THE FUTURE, BUT

ALSO TO ENSURE A BETTER WORLD IN THE YEARS AND DECADES TO COME. A BETTER FUTURE IN A SUSTAINABLE, MORE RIGHTEOUS AND OPEN WORLD. WE CAN ONLY SUCCEED IF WE STAY INTENSILY CONNECTED WITH SOCIETY. THE WORLD NEEDS YOU.

JAN DANCKAERT RECTOR OF VUB

CONNECTING ACADEMIA AND SOCIETY

One thing is clear: at VUB, we want to be a part of the solution. And maybe it won’t be the solution, but we definitely want to contribute to a positive and necessary evolution. Interdisciplinary research is indispensable in this regard. As University Fellowship Coordinator of VUB, I am convinced that an interdisciplinary approach must go hand in hand with a strong connection between academia and society. We count on our Fellows to improve the quality of our research and our education, the employability of our graduates and our overall capacity for innovation and competitiveness. Through the VUB Fellowship Programme, all who are involved discuss challenges, exchange experiences, share good practices and learn from one another for the benefit of society in general. Since 2012, VUB Fellow is the highest grade of membership at our Alma Mater, a title bestowed upon unique personalities: top level business people, visionary decision makers and socially relevant personalities. More than ten years of connecting academia and society. A successful connection that is so much more than the sum of its parts!

10 years of VUB Fellowship:

10 years of building talent with the help of talent.

That is the essence of our Fellowship Program: making academic and societal talent work together to the benefit of our students and researchers, to make the world a better place: thanks to all of you and let’s keep on building!

Karsten De Clerck Chairman of the Board of VUB & Honorary Fellow

(2020-2021-2023) and Honorary VUB

Vice-rector Hugo Thienpont University Fellowship Coordinator

VUB FELLOWS 2023

“WITH MY EXPERTISE IN CORPORATE SUSTAINABILITY, I AIM TO ACTIVELY CONTRIBUTE TO VUB’S MISSION OF CREATING A DYNAMIC PLATFORM THAT FOSTERS COLLABORATION AMONG ACADEMIA, STUDENTS, AND SOCIETY. BY FACILITATING THE INTEGRATION OF KNOWLEDGE AND IMPACT, I LOOK FORWARD TO BRIDGING THE GAP BETWEEN SCIENTIFIC EXPERTISE AND PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS.”

SUSTAINABILITY MANAGER, CARE PROPERTY INVEST

Proxima Marie-Laure Vandenhaute

SOLVAY

Aurianne Lambert is an alumna of Ghent University and graduated with a degree in applied economics in 2012. After studying at Sussex Downs College in the UK, she obtained a master in Environmental sciences and management at ULB. She has extensive experience as a sustainability consultant at Ernst & Young and Deloitte and is now sustainability manager at Care Property Invest.

Sustainability is a core value of VUB and Aurianne Lambert is keen to share her knowledge. She will give guest lectures and supervise master’s theses within the accounting programme, help develop the sustainability learning pathway, and shape and implement VUB’s sustainability policy.

VUB FELLOWS

BRUNO HUMBLET

CEO, DECEUNINCK

Proxima

Elvira Haezendonck

NETWORK MANAGER EÉN & CANVAS, VRT

Proximus Tim Raets

“VUB SYMBOLIZES AN OPEN AND BROAD VIEW OF THE WORLD, WHERE DIVERSE OPINIONS ARE VIEWED CONSTRUCTIVELY. AS A FELLOW, I WILL ACTIVELY CONTRIBUTE BY SHARING MY EXPERIENCES AND TESTING THE PERSPECTIVES OF OTHERS. I LOOK FORWARD TO WORKING WITH STUDENTS AND ACADEMICS.”

Bruno Humblet graduated as a commercial engineer from Solvay Business School in 1988 and did his military service in the air force. He worked for 17 years at Procter & Gamble in various financial functions and was heavily involved in the takeover of Gillette before moving to Bekaert. In 2022 he became CEO of Deceuninck, a Belgian window and door specialist.

He is keen to work with VUB as an ambassador and to share his network and knowledge. He will be in demand as a guest speaker on strategy and will contribute to research on circularity. Through his company, he can contribute to research groups’ R&D and innovation.

Lotte Vermeir gained her degree in communication science at VUB in 2007. After a short period as a researcher at imec-SMIT-VUB, she became a researcher/advisor at broadcaster VRT’s research department, becoming deputy network manager for the channels Eén and Canvas in 2018. Today, as the network manager of Eén and Canvas: she is responsible for the brand strategy, scheduling, and the commissioning of all local and international content, fiction and non-fiction of Eén and Canvas.

As a Fellow, Lotte will guide reflection on the future of public service broadcasting and the challenges facing VRT. She understands the needs of research into media behaviour, content production and distribution and can be an important facilitator between the research community and industry. She has already shared her vision in debates and guest lectures, and has been an inspiration for communication students.

“I REMEMBER VUB AS A PLACE WHERE, AS A STUDENT, I WAS ENCOURAGED TO THINK OPENLY AND FREELY, IN THE COMPANY OF INSPIRING PEOPLE WHO COULD EXPAND MY OUTLOOK. I REALLY LIKE THE IDEA OF BEING ABLE TO CONTRIBUTE TO THAT IN THE FUTURE.”

RUTH DEVENYNS

CEO, PRECIRIX

Proximus Thomas Crispeels

Ruth Devenyns studied economics at Ghent University and has an impressive track record in the biotechnology and life sciences industry. She was CFO of Ogeda until its acquisition by Astellas Pharma Inc in 2017. Before that, she worked in the financial sector for more than 20 years, in healthcare investment banking and venture capital. Since 2017 she has been CEO of Precirix, a VUB spin-off, and is an independent director of two companies listed on Euronext. She is also director of FlandersBio, the umbrella organisation for the region’s biotech sector.

Ruth has already been a guest speaker in the Business Aspects of Biotechnology course. During her Fellowship, she can contribute to research on technology transfer, a project on universitybased venture capital and future initiatives relating to deep-tech entrepreneurship and innovation.

DEPUTY HEAD COHESION, ECONOMIC AND SOCIAL POLICY , EUROPIAN COMMISSION

Proxima Caroline Buts

Steven Engels completed the advanced master programmes in European Integration and Social Law at VUB in 2009 and 2011 respectively. Prior to this, he obtained a PhD in Romance Languages and Literature from KU Leuven. He has worked at the European Commission since 2011 in a variety of roles. Since 2021, he coordinates economic, financial, social and cohesion policies as Deputy Head of Unit at the Secretariat-General.

Throughout his career Steven has maintained a close relationship with VUB, working with the faculty to teach and supervise master’s theses, and will aim to collaborate on future applied research. He could act as a sounding board in formulating policy-relevant research questions and giving guest lectures on European economic integration. The value for students is in his expertise and practical knowledge, as well as access to data and policy insights.

STEVEN ENGELS

“AS A STUDENT, I ALWAYS FOUND IT VERY INSTRUCTIVE WHEN PROFESSIONAL EXPERTS SHARED THEIR PRACTICAL EXPERIENCES WITH US. MY EXPERIENCE SHOWS THAT STAND TO BENEFIT IN EQUAL MEASURE AS THE WAY IN WHICH YOUNG PEOPLE QUESTION THE EUROPEAN INTEGRATION PROCESS CAN BE VERY ILLUMINATING.”

“PRECIRIX IS A NICE EXAMPLE OF CROSSFERTILIZATION BETWEEN DIFFERENT LABS WITHIN VUB, WITH A SUBSEQUENT TRANSITION TO THE CORPORATE WORLD. IT’S A PRIVILEGE TO BE PART OF THIS SUCCESSFUL COMPANY AND TO ADVOCATE THIS SPIRIT AS A VUB FELLOW.”

© Jasper Lefevre

LAW AND CRIMINOLOGY

“IN OUR PURSUIT OF SAFETY AND QUALITY OF LIFE, WE MUST CONTINUALLY ASK OURSELVES THE QUESTIONS: WHY DO WE BELIEVE THIS WORKS? HOW DO WE MEASURE THE IMPACT OF OUR WORK?

THIS IS WHERE ACADEMIA SUPPORTS US INDISPENSABLY - BY PROVIDING US WITH THE LATEST KNOWLEDGE, THE METHODS TO CRITICALLY EVALUATE OUR WORK AND THE HUMILITY TO UNDERSTAND WHAT STATISTICS CAN AND CANNOT TELL US.”

CHIEF CONSTABLE, POLITIEZONE BRUSSEL NOORD

Proxima Sofie De Kimpe

VUB FELLOWS

Olivier Slosse is a VUB alumnus and a psychologist by training. In 1995 he joined the Brussels police, going on to become responsible for the Elsene police zone’s Documentation and Training Department. Since 2017 he has been managing director and a member of the management team of the largest police zone in the country.

As a spokesperson for the POLBRU police zone, Olivier has previously been involved with the faculty in research on topics such as diversity, racism and technology. The force has always been a coveted internship among criminology students. Olivier can play an important role in the further academisation of police training and regularly gives guest lectures at VUB. He could also work with the Hannah Arendt Institute.

OLIVIER SLOSSE

TANIA DEKENS

CEO, IRISCARE

Proximus Guido Van Limberghen

Tania Dekens studied law at Ghent University and graduated in 1995. From 2012 to 2019 she was administrator general of Famifed, the then federal social security institution for child benefits. Since 2019, she has been CEO of Iriscare, which advises citizens and professionals on issues such as family allowance and care for the elderly and people with disabilities and pays allowances to citizens like child benefits. She also has extensive experience as adviser and Chief of Cabinet to several ministers.

“BOTH IRISCARE AND VUB HAVE IMPORTANT TIES TO OUR CAPITAL CITY. LAUNCHING RESEARCH PROJECTS TOGETHER, BASED ON AVAILABLE GOVERNMENT DATA, CAN INSPIRE POLICIES TO CONTINUOUSLY IMPROVE THE LIVES AND FUTURE OF BRUSSELS RESIDENTS.”

Tania will be invited to give guest lectures on social matters entrusted to the communities and Brussels and will work on the relevant sections of the social security law syllabus. In addition, she will assess master’s theses and advise students. She is wellversed in the legal status of public employees and can be involved in lectures and theses on the subject.

MOMENT IN LIFE WHERE YOU LEARN TO STRUCTURE YOUR MIND IN A MULTIDISCIPLINARY ENVIRONMENT. VUB NURTURES THE INDEPENDENCE OF STUDENTS’ MINDS. THIS IS ESSENTIAL FOR A WELL-FUNCTIONING SOCIETY, WHATEVER YOUR JOB. I’M HAPPY AND PROUD TO BRIDGE MY PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE WITH SUCH UNDERTAKING.”

MEMBER OF THE COUNCIL, BELGIAN INSTITUTE FOR POSTAL SERVICES AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS

Proximus Jeroen Delvoie

Axel Desmedt graduated from VUB in 1996, before obtaining a Master of Laws from the University of Michigan (Ann Arbor). After working as a lawyer for a leading Belgian and US law firm, he moved to the public sector in 2009. As a member of the decision-making body of the BIPT, Belgium’s telecoms and postal regulator, he has been setting the regulatory lines in these key economic sectors for the past 13 years. His second (and last) mandate at the BIPT expires soon and he is ranked first to become chair of the Belgian Competition Authority. He is one of the top players in competition law and economic regulation, having made his mark on many important cases in the sector.

He is willing to contribute to the teaching activities of a number of course units. Moreover, as an expert in the field of economic regulation, he has practical experience that will be invaluable for students. His contribution to outreach through chairing the University of Brussels Law & Criminology Alumni association also gives visibility to the law school.

“TIME AT UNIVERSITY IS A TRULY UNIQUE

BUSINESS UNIT MANAGER PATISSERIE, VANDEMOORTELE

Proximus Luc De Vuyst

SCIENCE VUB FELLOWS

Roel Van der Meulen studied bioengineering at VUB and has already been an excellent ambassador for the university. He has given lectures, with projects taking place with the research group Research Group of Industrial Microbiology and Food Biotechnology (IMDO) and industrial bakery companies Lantmännen Unibake and Vandemoortele, via Flanders’ FOOD and VLAIO. In 2022, he addressed the graduates of the Faculty of Science and Bioengineering at the ceremony on the Grote Markt. Furthermore, he also provides guest lectures in high schools to promote STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics) amongst the next generation of students.

Roel Van der Meulen will continue to engage with similar initiatives, in particular providing further support for teaching and research. He will support IMDO projects as well as the development of the pilot bakery, which is part of the recently established Fermented Food Pilot Plant. Students will also be able to do internships with his company.

“IN OUR CURRENT SOCIETY, CRITICAL THINKING SKILLS ARE NEEDED MORE THAN EVER. I THEREFORE CONSIDER IT A GREAT HONOUR, AS A FELLOW OF VUB, TO HELP SPREAD THIS MESSAGE AND MINDSET OF CRITICAL THINKING.”

ERIC MICHIELS

EXECUTIVE ARCHITECT, IBM BELGIUM

Proximus Jan De Beule

“WE ARE EVOLVING TOWARDS A SOCIETY IN WHICH PERMANENT LEARNING AND WORKING EQUALLY MATTER. IN THIS CONTEXT, UNIVERSITIES CAN, RATHER MUST, PLAY A CRUCIAL ROLE! WELL, WITH ITS BASIC PRINCIPLES OF CRITICAL THINKING, FREE RESEARCH, INNOVATION, FLEXIBLE STUDY PROGRAMS, A HUMANE VISION ON DIVERSITY AND EUROPEAN ANCHORING, THE VUB IS IDEALLY PLACED TO BUILD THE CRUCIAL BRIDGE BETWEEN ACADEMIA AND SOCIETY.”

Eric Michiels studied Mathematics and Informatics computer science at KU Leuven and has held several positions in the information technology sector. He has designed and implemented architectures in various industries and built up in-depth expertise in analytics, Artificial Intelligence and Quantum Computing. He joined IBM in 1999 and since 2007 has been Executive Architect at IBM Belgium.

Eric is known to the VUB department in his capacity as IBM Quantum Ambassador. He has given several guest lectures on Quantum Computing for general audiences, looking at specific mathematical aspects and applications in Data Science. A similar series of lectures, including a hands-on practice session for students, started this academic year (2022-2023).

ARTS AND HUMANITIES

VUB FELLOWS

TOM NAEGELS

WRITER

Proximus Wouter Ryckbosch

Tom Naegels studied Germanic languages at the University of Antwerp. He began his career at the Antwerp newspaper De Nieuwe Gazet in 1999 and today he is a well-known author, journalist and columnist on the themes of identity, migration and journalism. His work is published in De Standaard and he covers areas that are relevant to the Faculty of Arts and Philosophy.

Tom Naegels is working on the second volume of his book on migration in World War II and will give a guest lecture on the subject. Alongside a book presentation, he will debate with VUB researchers on the history of migration in collaboration with the Brussels Interdisciplinary Research Centre on Migration and Minorities. A workshop is planned on the relationship between academic research and public history, which could be linked to a masterclass on writing.

GENERAL MANAGER, VLAAMS-NEDERLANDS HUIS DEBUREN

Proximus Wim Vandenbussche

Willem Bongers-Dek studied Dutch language and culture in Utrecht, Antwerp and Sheffield and has been general manager of the Flemish-Dutch House deBuren since 2019, taking it to the top of its field in Brussels, Flanders and the Netherlands. He has worked for several literary journals and is active as a guest lecturer at foreign universities. Today, he holds a number of positions on councils and boards. This experience can complement the existing cooperation with VUB through activities that contribute to developing students’ talent.

Willem Bongers-Dek has a strong connection to VUB and his value as a Fellow is high. He has created debate series for CrossTalks, Science Bar and We.Konekt and worked with the Pilar ASAP festival. As a Fellow, he will participate to debates on relevant themes and help put the university on the map.

“ACADEMIA AND SOCIETY NEED EACH OTHER TO GAIN KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE. THIS INTERACTION IS PUT INTO PRACTICE VIA THE VUB FELLOWSHIP.”

“ART AND SCIENCE CAN REALIZE THEIR SOCIETAL POTENTIAL AS IN A GAME OF BILLIARDS: INDIRECTLY. ONLY WHEN ACADEMICS AND ARTISTS ARE FREE FROM IMPROPER PRESSURE, THEY ARE FREE TO CONTRIBUTE TO SOCIETY. AS A FELLOW, I HOPE TO BRING DIFFERENT WAYS OF THINKING INTO PLAY, TOGETHER WITH ACADEMICS, ARTISTS AND, WHO KNOWS, BILLIARD PLAYERS.”

WILLEM BONGERS-DEK

DIRECTOR, GO!

Proximus Koen Lombaerts

PSYCHOLOGY AND EDUCATIONAL SCIENCES VUB FELLOWS

Koen Pelleriaux studied sociology at VUB and obtained his PhD in 2000. He started his career as a sociologist and researcher at VUB, then was professor of sociology at the University of Antwerp. In 2005 he became director of the sp.a. Study Centre and was Chief of Cabinet for education. In 2014, he became director of Flanders’ Department of Education and in 2020 he joined education network GO!. Since 2021, he has been executive director.

“THE VUB IS INDISPENSABLE TO ME, IN BRUSSELS AND IN THE WORLD. IN THE WORLD FOR ITS GROUNDBREAKING RESEARCH, IN BRUSSELS (AND WIDE SURROUNDINGS) FOR THE ENORMOUS SOCIAL MOBILITY IT SIGNS UP FOR. BUT ALSO - AND PERHAPS MOST IMPORTANTLY - FOR THE VALUES IT PROMOTES: SELF-DETERMINATION, TOLERANCE AND SOLIDARITY.”

Koen Pelleriaux has remained closely linked to VUB and has taught educational policy in the teacher training programme. He is a strong partner for practice and research activities that provide a response to social and educational challenges. He can offer internships and research projects for educational innovation, while his network will strengthen ties between VUB and GO! institutions.

© Illias Teirlinck

CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD, KOM OP TEGEN KANKER

Proximus Mark De Ridder

Marc Michils holds a degree in economics and studied at Vlerick Business School. He worked at advertising agency BBDO before founding his own agency, Quattro, which was acquired by Saatchi & Saatchi Belgium which he led until 2012. He then became CEO of the nonprofit organization Kom op tegen Kanker until last year and remains Chairman of the Board. He writes about fair advertising and his book “Kom op!” is an ode to solidarity, written out of outrage at rising intolerance.

As cancer research is an important part of ongoing research within the Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Marc Michils can help to make this research more widely known and create valuable reflection opportunities for researchers. Given his experience as Chairman of the Board of Vlaamse Brusselse Media (Bruzz), he can also contribute to the communication policy of research at the University Medical Campus.

UMC VUB FELLOWS

MARK MICHILS

“PROGRESS IS CREATED BY ENCOURAGING EACH OTHER. A SOCIETY IS NOT A LOOSE COLLECTION OF PEOPLE. CONNECTION, RESPECT, ENGAGEMENT, DISCUSSION AND CURIOSITY ARE NEEDED. UNIVERSITIES HAVE A HUGE ROLE TO PLAY IN BEING A PUBLIC PLACE THAT MAKES SOCIETY BETTER THROUGH KNOWLEDGE TRANSFER, SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH AND INNOVATION. THAT IS WHAT WOULD LIKE TO CONTRIBUTE TO WITH MY VUB FELLOWSHIP.”

CEO, KING BAUDOUIN FOUNDATION

Proximus Michel Deneyer

Brieuc Vandamme obtained a master in economics from KU Leuven in 2006. Early in his career, he taught health economics in Belgium and the DRC. In 2013, he became co-founder and president of the Friday Group, a think tank of young Belgian talent supported by the King Baudouin Foundation. He was health adviser to the deputy prime minister, deputy chief of cabinet to the minister of social affairs and health, and Covid-19 adviser to the prime minister. From 2020 to 2022 he was director-general for healthcare at Riziv before becoming CEO of the King Baudouin Foundation.

Brieuc Vandamme is an expert in the healthcare sector. He is an inspiring leader who can provide interesting guest lectures on clinical and social topics. He teaches health economics at ULB and Solvay Business School since 2021. He can offer internships and facilitate projects on issues such as access to care in urban areas, social injustice, climate, environment and biodiversity.

BRIEUC VANDAMME

ENGINEERING VUB FELLOWS

IDEAS, FULFILLING ITS SOCIAL ROLE OF BRIDGE BUILDER WITH SERIOUSNESS

AND AMBITION FOR BRUSSELS AND THE WORLD. MORE THAN EVER, THERE IS A NEED FOR DIALOGUE AND CREATIVE SOLUTIONS TO THE MANY CHALLENGES OF THESE EXCITING TIMES. IT IS A GREAT HONOUR TO PUT MY SHOULDERS UNDER THIS PROGRAMME.”

HEAD OF DEPARTMENT, PROCESS SAFETY EXPERTISE & INTEGRITY MANAGEMENT, TOTAL

Proximi Annick Hubin & Guy Van Assche

SIMON DE BOECK

MAYOR, GEMEENTE GOOIK

Proximus

Hugo Thienpont

Dirk Roosendans obtained his master in safety engineering from VUB in 2008 and a PhD in engineering science in 2018. Since 2007, he has held various positions at Total and today he is head of the Process Safety Expertise & Integrity Management Department. For an engineer specialising in chemistry and materials, industrial plant safety and risk analysis are essential.

Dirk Roosendans can connect VUB with expertise on process safety and risk analysis. Moreover, the collaboration provides a connection with a global energy player that open doors for research valorisation. He already acts as a visiting professor for the chemistry and materials course, but is also of interest for wider engineering audiences.

DIRK ROOSENDANS

Simon De Boeck graduated from UGent and ETSAB Barcelona in 2005. He is the mayor of Gooik and is responsible for public works, spatial planning, mobility, police, security, Flemish character, finance, civil status and intermunicipal cooperation. As mayor, he is an important figure in the development and expansion of the VUB campus and the VUB Photonics Innovation Centre in Gooik.

IS AT THE SAME TIME TO BE STRONGLY EMBEDDED IN LOCAL SOCIETY. AN INSPIRING AND CONSTRUCTIVE COLLABORATION WITH POLICY MAKERS, EVEN AT THE LOCAL LEVEL, PROPELS

TALENT DEVELOPMENT FROM THE ABSOLUTE BASICS TO A HIGHER LEVEL.

IT IS A GREAT HONOUR TO ME TO HELP BUILD THAT.”

The VUB STEAM academy is expected to develop in the coming years, with the aim of informing as many young people as possible from the Flemish periphery and further afield about the importance of science and technology, and what VUB can offer. Discussions are taking place on the development of plots acquired by VUB. The collaboration with Gooik creates visibility in the Halle-Vilvoorde area, where the Faculty of Engineering recruits a significant number of students every year.

“SAFETY OF INDUSTRIAL PLANTS IS ESSENTIAL. THIS LEVEL OF SAFETY CAN BE FURTHER OPTIMIZED BY CONNECTING ACADEMIA WITH THE INDUSTRY THROUGH THE SHARING OF MORE THAN 30 YEARS OF PRACTICAL EXPERIENCE IN THIS FIELD IN THE FORM OF NETWORKING, LECTURES, COURSES AND SUPERVISING GRADUATION PROJECTS OF STUDENTS.”

“VUB’S AMBITION AS AN INTERNATIONALLY RESPECTED INSTITUTION

CHAIRWOMAN OF THE BOARD, BEDNET

Proximus David Beckwée

MOVEMENT AND REHABILITATION VUB FELLOWS

Kathy Lindekens graduated as a translator at RUCA, University of Antwerp, in 1977. In 1989, she founded the cancer research fundraiser Kom op tegen Kanker and was president of the non-profit of the same name until 1995. In 2004, she established the nonprofit Bednet, which allows long-term sick children to be virtually present in their classroom. Between 1995 and 2003, she was a parliamentarian and an alderman, before rejoining the VRT. Today, she is still a member of the Board of Kom op tegen Kanker and is Chairwoman of Bednet.

Kathy Lindekens has highlighted a number of socially relevant research areas for discussion with the Oncology Research Center of VUB and UZ Brussel. She will offer guest lectures to share her expertise and insights on topics such as the problems faced by adolescents. She can also provide communication and media training and act as a consultant on science communication.

KATHY LINDEKENS

“AS A YOUTH ADVISOR AND FOUNDER OF KOM OP TEGEN KANKER AND BEDNET, I WOULD LIKE TO USE MY EXPERIENCE AND EXPERTISE TO SPEAK OUT AS THE VOICE OF LONG-TERM SICK CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS AND YOUNG CANCER PATIENTS. AS A SOCIALLY ENGAGED UNIVERSITY, VUB CAN PLAY A LEADING ROLE IN THEIR HOSPITAL STAY, THEIR REHABILITATION AND THEIR RETURN TO SCHOOL AND ACADEMIC LIFE.”

VUB FELLOWS

TO THIS ATTITUDE FORMATION, BY STRENGTHENING THE PERSONAL WELL-BEING OF ALL YOUNG PEOPLE AND INVITING THEM TO CREATIVE INNOVATIVE ENTREPRENEURSHIP AIMED AT CONTRIBUTING TO CARING FOR A HOPEFUL FUTURE SOCIETY.”

FOUNDER, CHAIR WOMAN AND YOUTH THERAPIST, TEJO

Proximus Jan Danckaert

Ingrid De Jonghe has a master in criminology and law. After 15 years of law practice, she began studying pedagogy and psychology and in 1996 started working as a behavioural and systems therapist. She founded the non-profit TEJO in 2013, which provides accessible therapeutic support to young people between the ages of 10 and 20, anonymously and free of charge. Besides therapeutic counselling, TEJO also offers other trainings to empower young people, such as the HOU VAST movement. In 2020, she received an award from the Filson Steers Mariman Fund, part of the King Baudouin Foundation, for her work.

During the pandemic, Ingrid De Jonghe worked with late honorary rector Caroline Pauwels and well-being advisor Prof. Valéry Ann Jacobs on student welfare. She raised the age limit at TEJO in Brussels so students over 20 could access its services and is working with rector Jan Danckaert and Prof. Jacobs to host a TEJO exhibition, demonstrating VUB’s commitment to the initiative. The possibility of establishing a second TEJO house in Brussels, closer to VUB, is also being explored.

INGRID DE JONGHE

“ACADEMIC EDUCATION ENSURES THE FURTHER PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT OF EACH STUDENT. A GROWTH PROCESS THAT LEADS TO MORE INVOLVEMENT IN SOCIETY, TAKING RESPONSIBILITY AND SOCIAL COMMITMENT. I WOULD LIKE TO CONTRIBUTE

AKIRA HIRUMA

PRESIDENT AND CHAIRMAN OF BOARD, HAMAMATSU PHOTONICS JAPAN

Proximus Hugo Thienpont

TRAINING I WAS PRIVILEGED TO RECEIVE AS A VUB STUDENT FORMED A GREAT BASIS FOR GETTING STARTED IN PROFESSIONAL LIFE. I AM HONOURED, AS A VUB FELLOW, TO BE ABLE TO CONTRIBUTE MY EXPERIENCE FOR THE BENEFIT OF THE “CONNECTING ACADEMIA AND SOCIETY” PROGRAM.”

CEO, AZTEQ

Proxima Karin Vanderkerken

Akira Hiruma graduated from Rutgers State University of New Jersey and has headed six companies. He holds several directorships and now leads Japanese photonics company Hamamatsu Photonics. He is also co-founder of the VUB Hamamatsu Applied Photonics Innovation chair, which enables exchanges of students, researchers and professors. This can serve as an example for creating links with innovative Japanese companies.

Akira Hiruma has a wide network that allows VUB to create better collaboration with Japanese industry and universities. The EU has opened up funding for projects between European institutions and Japanese companies on key technologies. Exploring researcher exchange programmes, with Brussels Photonics as a test case, is a possibility. Collaborations are planned on innovation support models for SMEs in Japan and Europe, and meetings between Flemish, European and Japanese policymakers.

Koen Vermout obtained a degree in civil electronics engineering from VUB and an MBA from UHasselt. After a career at Alcatel and Nexans, where he held various operational and general management positions in Europe, Asia and Africa, he is now co-founder and CEO of Azteq. He brings expertise in operational excellence, developing operations in high-growth environments and leading high-performing international teams.

Koen Vermout’s experience in company management is invaluable, as is his vision of better integrating management aspects. He has broad international experience and will be invited to participate in the think tank set up by the Vice-Rectorate of Internationalisation, with the aim of optimising and integrating internationalisation into the university’s day-to-day operations and degree programmes.

“OUR COMPANY HAS AN EXCELLENT RELATIONSHIP WITH VUB B-PHOT HAVING A CHAIR ON PHOTONICS TECHNOLOGY. I HOPE TO STRENGTHEN THE RELATIONSHIP EVEN FURTHER TO ADVANCE PHOTONICS TECHNOLOGY FOR THE FUTURE WORLD. AS A FELLOW, WOULD LIKE TO BE A BRIDGE BETWEEN VUB AND JAPANESE SOCIETY.”

“THE SIGNIFICANT ACADEMIC

ILSE OOGHE

GENERAL MANAGER, RVO-SOCIETY

Proxima Nadine Engels

Ilse Ooghe graduated from VUB as a bioengineer and then obtained a master in educational sciences. She worked as a bioengineer in the private sector and held management positions at Janssen Pharmaceutica. In 2009, she joined CVO De Oranjerie, where she worked as coordinator of internal quality assurance, teacher training and HBO-5 courses. After her second master, she worked in secondary education as policy officer and director, then became general manager of RVO-Society.

RVO-Society comprises Brightlab and Scivil. Brightlab is a bridge between scientific and technical innovation and education, promoting literacy in science and engineering. Ilse Ooghe can establish partnerships with VUB programmes or research centres based on their expertise in developing STEM activities. With Scivil, her team can support scientists to set up citizen science projects and disseminate the knowledge they produce.

NEW WAYS OF ARRIVING AT SOLUTIONS, BEYOND OUR METHODOLOGIES AND INSTITUTIONS. WE NOT ONLY NEED ALL HANDS-ON-DECK, BUT ALSO ACCESS TO ALL THE DATA THAT CAN PROVIDE ACTIONAL INTELLIGENCE. LOOKING FORWARD TO WORK WITH VUB COLLEAGUES TOWARD CONNECTING ACADEMIA AND SOCIETY

CO-FOUNDER, GOVLAB & DATA TANK

Proximus Pieter Ballon

Stefaan Verhulst obtained his PhD from VUB and is co-founder of Govlab at New York University, a research centre that transforms decision-making using data and collective intelligence. He has extensive experience in using data and open science to create social impact and is a pioneer in creating data collaborations in various fields, including scientific research and humanitarian aid. He is also co-founder and chief scientific advisor of the Brusselsbased Data Tank, which promotes the responsible use of data for the public good.

Stefaan Verhulst will actively contribute to a comprehensive strategy for data management and collaboration at VUB. As an external expert for the Open Science Office, he can help establish partnerships with organisations involved in data collection, analysis and dissemination and provide training for students, faculty and staff in data management and open science.

“VUB STANDS FOR WONDER AND CONNECTION. RVO-SOCIETY ALSO WANTS TO CREATE WONDER FOR SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY AND CREATE CONNECTION WITH AN EYE FOR TALENT DEVELOPMENT AND SOCIAL INVOLVEMENT, AMONG YOUNG PEOPLE AND CITIZENS. AS A FELLOW, I WANT TO BUILD A BRIDGE BETWEEN VUB AND RVO-SOCIETY, AND REALIZE IMPACT TOGETHER.”

“TODAY’S CHALLENGES, SUCH AS CLIMATE CHANGE AND ECONOMIC INEQUALITY, REQUIRE

THROUGH OPEN SCIENCE AND A REIMAGINED DATA STEWARDSHIP.”

Annick Dermine Frank Vandenbroucke

Joris Van Loco

Mieke Walraevens

Pim Drinkenburg Raf Mertens

Yolande Avontroodt

Yves Desmet

Marc Demarche

Marco Croon

Martine Tempels

Michael Peeters

Muzaffer Güler

Peter Grognard

Philip Hermans

Philippe Block

Pol Hoorelbeke

HONORARY

HONORARY

Alain De Greef

Bob Verbeeck

Costantino Balestra

David Steegen

Eddy De Smedt

Bilal Benyaich

Bob Elsen

Christophe Busch

Claire Tillekaerts

Dalilla Hermans

De Wolf

Rene De Keyzer

Sven Vandeputte Telidja Klaï

2023

Spiessens

Dechateau

Véronique Wendrix

Yves Pianet

Harriëtte Jager-Wittenaar

Marc Frederix

Sonia Van Den Broeck

Veronique Feipel

Willy Smeets

Yves Geysels

Els Ampe

Farida Lamkanfi

Felix Van de Maele

Guy Vanhengel

Koenraad Van Loo

Lieve Wierinck

Pamela Peeters

Bernward Garthoff Caroline Verlinde Dirk Dewolf Frank Robben

Ilse Weeghmans

Jo De Cock

Johan Uvin

Karine Moykens

Leo Neels

Luc Adriaenssens

Lutgarde Buydens

Maggie De Block

Margot Cloet

Martin Paul

Martine Huybrechts

Patricia Lanssiers

Paul Callewaert

Pedro Facon

Peter Degadt

Dirk Roosendans

Simon De Boeck

HONORARY ENGINEERING

VUB FELLOWS

Ali Mohammadi

Anneke Hunninck

Chris Wuytens

Christ’l Joris

Dirk Boogmans

Fauzaya Talhaoui

Ingrid Van de Voorde

Jan Vliegen

Jan Watté

Kathleen Dupont

late Marco Van Uffelen

Lieve Paternoster

Line Alderweireldt

Marc De Groote

Rudi Vranckx

Pascale Van Damme

Paul Van Gysegem

Raymonda Verdyck

Kristof Pitteurs

Stefaan Van der Borght

Ingrid De Jonghe

Koenraad Vermout

Stefaan Verhulst

CONTACT

At the university level, the general management and common activities of the Fellowship programme are coordinated by the Fellowship Office.

Vrije Universiteit Brussel

Pleinlaan 11 – 1050 Brussel

+32 (0)2 614 88 32 vub.be/fellowship

Isabelle Marneffe

University Fellowship manager isabelle.marneffe@vub.be

+32 (0)2 614 88 30

Hanan Belaraj

Fellowship coordinator hanan.belaraj@vub.be

+32 (0)2 614 88 32

VUB FELLOWSHIP OFFICE