Kristien De Paepe

Kristien De Paepe is Professor of In Vitro Toxicology and Dermato-Cosmetology in the Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences at Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Belgium. Her research focuses on skin barrier function, epidermal lipid analysis, and cosmetic safety assessment, with significant contributions to both academic research and industry applications.

Her research interests span multiple interconnected domains centered on skin health and pharmaceutical sciences. Dr. De Paepe has pioneered work on the analysis of epidermal human skin lipids, investigating healthy skin as well as factors affecting lipid concentrations. Her expertise extends to the development and validation of biophysical measuring tools for assessing barrier function properties, skin topography, and epidermal desquamation. She serves as a safety assessor of cosmetics in the EU, bridging academic research with regulatory requirements.

Analysis of her publication trends reveals a consistent focus on skin barrier function and dermato-cosmetic sciences throughout her career, with recent work expanding into medical education and interdisciplinary applications. Her research demonstrates strong connections between pharmaceutical sciences, dermatology, and practical healthcare applications, particularly in the areas of skin hydration, barrier repair, and safety assessment of cosmetic products.

Her scientific recognition includes:

• Laureate Rottendorf Europe Award (1999)
• Co-laureate Young Researcher Roche Donation prize (2000)
• Co-laureate Best Poster ISBS (2000)
• Nomination for VICHY-prize 'Women are in Medicine to stay' (1995)

Dr. De Paepe has supervised 117 theses/master dissertations and collaborates extensively on research projects, particularly in European educational initiatives. Her grant portfolio includes significant European projects such as PHAR-QA (Quality Assurance in Pharmacy Education in Europe) and PHAR-IN (Competencies for Pharmacists in the Biotechnological Industry), reflecting her leadership in pharmacy education reform across Europe. She has also contributed to numerous activities including workshops, conferences, and committee memberships, demonstrating active engagement in both research and educational communities.