Lieuwke Kranenburg is an Assistant Professor at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine , Utrecht University , specializing in Equine Internal Medicine . She provides patient care at the University Equine Clinic and teaches Master's courses in equine digestion , infectious diseases , and skin problems . Research Focus: Equine internal medicine, digestive diseases, infectious pathogens, metabolic disorders Professional Certifications: EBVS® European Veterinary Specialist in Equine Internal Medicine International Collaboration: Trained Chinese veterinarians at Heilan Equestrian Centre Publications highlight her work on equine gastric disease management, diagnostic imaging, infectious disease epidemiology, and metabolic research. She contributes to equine clinical research through peer-reviewed journals and conference abstracts. Professional Involvement: Former board member of the Equine Medicine Group and current GGP representative for FEEVA, maintaining professional networks and advancing equine veterinary practice.
Hans Vernooij is a Lecturer in Farm Animal Health at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University. He specializes in statistical methods and data science applications in veterinary epidemiology and animal health. His areas of expertise include: Statistical methods for veterinary research Applied Data Science in Life Sciences Epidemiological modeling Machine learning applications in animal health Vernooij has extensive experience in developing statistical models for animal health applications. His research focuses on applying advanced statistical techniques and data science methods to solve problems in veterinary epidemiology and farm animal health. He has particular expertise in Random Forest models, as demonstrated during his sabbatical at the Human Sciences Research Council in Pretoria where he developed a model for HIV status prediction based on demographic information and knowledge of HIV prevention from large-scale survey data. His publication record shows consistent contributions across veterinary epidemiology, with recent work emphasizing machine learning applications and big data analytics in animal health surveillance. The research demonstrates a clear trajectory from traditional statistical methods toward more advanced data science approaches. Vernooij is actively involved in teaching and mentoring: Teaches statistics to Bachelor students at the veterinary faculty Supports PhD candidates and Master students during data analysis phases of their research Provides statistics education for the Master of Epidemiology program at the Julius Centre of University Medical Centre
Erik Weerts is a Clinician and Veterinary Pathologist (diplomate of the European College of Veterinary Pathologists) at Utrecht University's Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Division of Pathology. He holds a PhD in Veterinary Medicine awarded in June 2023 for his thesis 'Coronaviruses in poultry: an ongoing pandemic?' Dr. Weerts' research focuses primarily on veterinary pathology with special emphasis on avian coronaviruses, particularly infectious bronchitis virus in poultry. His work spans comparative pathology, dual infection models, and molecular mechanisms of viral pathogenesis. He has published extensively on coronavirus-related topics, examining viral transmission, tissue tropism, host-pathogen interactions, and vaccine development. Analysis of his recent publications reveals a strong concentration on poultry diseases, particularly viral respiratory infections in chickens and turkeys. His research often examines the interplay between viral and bacterial pathogens, with significant work on infectious bronchitis virus pathogenesis and immune responses. Weerts frequently collaborates with researchers across multiple institutions, demonstrating a network spanning veterinary virology, immunology, and pathology. Diplomate of the European College of Veterinary Pathologists (February 2014) PhD in Veterinary Medicine (June 2023) Dr. Weerts performs diagnostic research including necropsies on domestic, exotic and wild animals, and biopsy examination. He has significant teaching responsibilities within the veterinary medicine program and participates in research collaborations both within and outside the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, including heat stress in pigs and poultry studies with the Poultry Science Division and Population Health Sciences Department.
Dr. Lonneke IJsseldijk is an Assistant Professor in Pathology at Utrecht University's Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, specializing in marine mammal health and stranding research. She serves as a project manager for the national marine mammal stranding program commissioned by the Ministry of Agriculture, Nature and Food Quality, focusing on causes of death and anthropogenic impacts on cetacean populations. PhD in Harbor Porpoise Health (Utrecht University, 2021) MS in Environmental Biology (Utrecht, 2017) BS in Integrated Coastal Zone Management (Van Hall Larenstein, 2013) Minor in Marine Living Resources (Wageningen, 2012-2013) Her research program combines pathology, ecology, and conservation biology with a strong emphasis on public science communication. Key areas include marine mammal health assessment, cause-of-death analysis, and investigating anthropogenic stressors like underwater noise and plastic pollution. She utilizes advanced techniques such as synchrotron tomography and stable isotope analysis. Recent publications focus on nanoplastic effects on gene expression, whale teeth biomarkers, and cross-border monitoring of Wadden Sea porpoises. She contributes to policy development through memberships in IUCN Cetacean Specialist Group, ASCOBANS working groups, and ICES marine mammal ecology teams. Stairway to Impact Award 2022 (€50,000 grant) Dr. IJsseldijk actively engages the public through social media, educational media production, and citizen science initiatives that mobilize volunteers for specimen collection. Her work bridges veterinary science with marine conservation policy, supporting sustainable ocean management through interdisciplinary research.
Jooske IJzer is an Associate Professor at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine , Utrecht University , specializing in Veterinary Pathology and Histopathology . She leads pathology education and serves as the Educational Director of the Undergraduate School of Veterinary Medicine since May 2023. Graduated as a veterinarian from Utrecht University in 1995 Completed a residency in veterinary pathology in 2002 PhD in 2008 on 'Liver fibrosis and regeneration in dogs and cats: an immunohistochemical approach' Her research focuses on infectious diseases in wildlife and exotic animals , with significant work on viral outbreaks (e.g., Usutu Virus , RHDV2 ), zoonotic pathogens (e.g., Francisella tularensis , Bartonella alsatica ), and environmental health impacts (e.g., microplastics in marine mammals ). Her recent publications highlight diagnostic pathology of emerging infectious diseases in wildlife, with a strong emphasis on One Health approaches. She collaborates with institutions like the Dutch Wildlife Health Centre (DWHC) and Veterinary Pathology Diagnostic Centre . Jooske holds teaching qualifications (BKO, SKO, Educational Leadership Program) and has led curriculum reforms for veterinary education. She has coordinated pathology instruction for bachelor’s and master’s programs and sits on multiple academic committees.
Dr. S.A. van Nimwegen serves as Assistant Professor in the Department of Clinical Sciences of Companion Animals at Utrecht University's Faculty of Veterinary Medicine. Board-certified as a European Specialist in Companion Animal Surgery (ECVS) since February 2013, he holds dual expertise in veterinary surgery and radiation physics with specialization in minimally invasive techniques. His primary research focuses on developing novel tumor treatments using intratumoral radioactive holmium (166-Ho) microspheres, bridging veterinary and human medicine through translational research. Key projects include image-guided brain tumor therapy in companion animals, nanobody-targeted photodynamic therapy for feline oral cancer, and holmium microbrachytherapy for head/neck tumors. His work demonstrates significant clinical translation potential, with veterinary研究成果 directly informing human cancer trials. Holmium tegen hersentumoren (August 20, 2021) Morris Animal Foundation fellowship (February 2021) As radiation safety expert and legal officer, van Nimwegen supervises radionuclide therapy protocols while representing surgical oncology in Utrecht's multidisciplinary Animal Cancer Center. He leads the OnGo clinical oncology research group collaboration involving surgical oncology, medical oncology, diagnostic imaging, and pathology teams. Current NWO-TTW funded consortium work includes partnerships with Radboud UMC, UMC Utrecht, TU Delft, and industry partners Quirem Medical and Enceladus. His educational background spans veterinary medicine (DVM, 2006), PhD in laser/urogenital surgery (2008), and radiation safety certification (expert level 3). He contributes to internationally recognized surgical textbooks on oncologic and minimally invasive procedures while maintaining active clinical practice in companion animal surgery.
Estefania Lozano Andres is an Assistant Professor at Utrecht University's Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences (Faculty of Veterinary Medicine). She specializes in Extracellular Vesicles and Flow Cytometry , focusing on their applications in biomarker discovery, immunology, and molecular biology. Key Expertise: Flow Cytometry, Extracellular Vesicle Analysis, Molecular Biology Research Themes: Life Sciences Research Focus: Her work investigates the fundamental properties of extracellular vesicles (EVs), including their role in intercellular communication, disease progression, and diagnostic applications. She develops advanced flow cytometry methodologies for EV characterization and contributes to standardization frameworks like MIFlowCyt-EV. Scientific Leadership: She manages Utrecht's Center for Flow Cytometry and FACS (CFC), advancing high-dimensional analysis and panel design. Her awards include multiple international travel grants (2019-2022) and mobility fellowships from Autonomous University of Madrid. Recent Publications: Over 15 articles (2019-2025) address: EV-biomarker relationships in equine osteoarthritis Fluorescence calibration challenges in nanoparticle analysis EV-lipoprotein interactions CRISPR/Cas9-based antiviral discoveries Collaborations: Active in global EV research networks, including the International Society for Extracellular Vesicles. Her work intersects with UN Sustainable Development Goals for health innovations.
Dr. Nikae te Moller is an Assistant Professor at the Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University. Her research focuses on equine musculoskeletal health , combining gait analysis (kinematics/kinetics), osteoarthritis progression in equine joints, and longitudinal data analysis . She employs advanced techniques like facial electromyography (fEMG) and R programming for statistical analysis, with applications in science communication (e.g., public dance demonstrations of joint dynamics). Expertise in equine cartilage injury models (blunt vs. sharp lesions) Developed equine carpal groove model for osteoarthritis studies Innovator in optical coherence tomography (OCT) and near-infrared spectroscopy for cartilage assessment Recent publications (2024-2023) emphasize quantitative MRI , micro-CT , and infrared spectroscopy for early detection of cartilage defects. Her work bridges regenerative medicine and equine locomotion , with collaborations across biomedical engineering (e.g., 3D T1 relaxation time studies) and veterinary science. Awards include the Public Engagement Seed Fund . Current projects involve objective pain quantification and biomechanical response to treadmill exercise in horses.
Viktor Szatmári is an Associate Professor of Companion Animal Cardiology at Utrecht University's Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Clinical Sciences. He serves as a specialist in Internal Medicine of Companion Animals with a focus on cardiology. His work is centered at the University Clinic for Companion Animals, Department of Cardiology-Pulmonology in Utrecht, Netherlands. His research interests span veterinary cardiology with emphasis on interventional procedures, congenital heart defects, diagnostic imaging, and small animal cardiovascular disease. He specializes in both canine and feline cardiology, with significant expertise in ultrasonography, Doppler techniques, and cardiac interventions including pacemaker implantation and vascular stenting. His recent publications reveal a strong focus on practical clinical challenges in veterinary cardiology, including standardized diagnostic methods, management of congenital defects, antimicrobial prophylaxis in cardiac procedures, and implementation of evidence-based guidelines in veterinary practice. His work bridges clinical practice with academic research, addressing real-world diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. Diplomate ECVIM-CA (Cardiology) EBVS® European Veterinary Specialist in Small Animal Cardiology Advanced Teaching Qualification from Utrecht University Basic Teaching Qualification from Utrecht University Dr. Szatmári has been instrumental in developing and directing the ECVIM-CA (Cardiology) specialist training program at Utrecht University since 2007. His clinical work focuses on complex cardiac cases, particularly interventional cardiology procedures. He teaches courses including Basic Rotation Companion Animal Internal Medicine and Veterinary Professional level courses. He leads the Cardiovascular & Pulmonary Medicine Unit within the Department of Clinical Sciences and has maintained an active research program investigating various aspects of small animal cardiology, with particular expertise in congenital heart disease, cardiac imaging, and interventional techniques.
Nienke Endenburg is an Associate Professor at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine , Utrecht University, Netherlands. She works within the Department of Population Health Sciences , focusing on the Human-Animal Bond , Animal Welfare , and Veterinary Behavioral Medicine . Her career spans over 30 years, with roles in research, teaching, and clinical practice. Specializes in Human-Animal Interaction and Companion Animal Welfare Teaches Child Development , Animal-Assisted Interventions , and Grief Counseling in Germany since 2001 Co-founder of the Certipet Foundation (2010) and member of the World Small Animal Veterinary Association (2011) Active in Veterinary Forensic Expertise and Animal Welfare Policy globally Her research explores the psychological impact of companion animals on children , animal abuse and domestic violence links , and stress physiology in service animals . Key methodologies include longitudinal studies, physiological measurements (e.g., cortisol), and cross-cultural surveys. Notable recent publications address global veterinary education trends , service dog efficacy for PTSD , and forensic animal abuse indicators . She contributes to WSAVA guidelines on animal welfare and professional wellness.
Dr. Guillaume (Guy) Cornelis Maria Grinwis is an Associate Professor in Veterinary Pathology at Utrecht University's Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences within the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine. He has been appointed at the Veterinary Pathology Diagnostic Centre (VPDC) in Utrecht since 1990, where he plays a leading role in diagnostic services and post-graduate training. Dr. Grinwis specializes in veterinary pathology with particular expertise in histopathology, liver pathology, ocular pathology, veterinary pathology, and forensic animal pathology. His research interests focus on regenerative medicine and stem cell applications in liver disease, pathologies of the intervertebral disc, and tumors of endocrine organs. He has been involved in numerous research projects within the strategic theme of Life Sciences, particularly in Regenerative Medicine & Stem Cells. His recent scholarly output demonstrates significant contributions across diverse areas of veterinary pathology, with emphasis on canine endocrine disorders, spinal pathologies, and innovative surgical techniques. Dr. Grinwis has published extensively in high-impact veterinary journals, with recent work spanning from 2023-2025 on topics including intervertebral disc degeneration, novel organoid models for adrenal disease, and breed-specific inflammatory myopathies. As an educator, Dr. Grinwis is deeply involved in teaching veterinary students and supervising post-graduate residents in veterinary pathology and clinical veterinary sciences including internal medicine, oncology, and ophthalmology. He also regularly performs forensic autopsies on various animal species as assigned by public prosecutors. His professional activities include serving as Supervisor of the Committee for the Registration of Laboratory Animals and Toxicological Pathologists (CRP/TP) and Secretary of the Dutch College of Veterinary Pathologists (NCVP), demonstrating his leadership within the veterinary pathology community.
Prof. Dr. JAM (Jan) Langermans is a Professor of Veterinary Medicine at Utrecht University, affiliated with the Department of Population Health Sciences and the Animals in Science & Society research group. His academic role focuses on animal welfare, non-human primate research, and biomedical applications. He is the Chair of the Welfare of Laboratory Animals and has held roles such as Deputy Director at BPRC (Biomedical Primate Research Centre). His research emphasizes microbiome analysis, infectious disease modeling (e.g., SARS-CoV-2), and vaccine development. Notable projects include studies on primate gut microbiota, immune response imaging, and environmental enrichment programs for laboratory animals. He collaborates internationally on preclinical vaccine infrastructure and ethical lab animal practices. Prof. Langermans teaches courses in veterinary professional skills and scientific thinking. His publications span over two decades, addressing topics like primate health monitoring, antibiotic efficacy, and neuroinflammation in viral infections. He actively participates in committees such as AAALAC (Advisory Board) and EATRIS (Vaccine Platforms). His work bridges veterinary science and biomedical research, with a focus on translational applications for human health while prioritizing animal welfare standards. Current projects include longitudinal studies on non-human primate models for chronic diseases and pandemic preparedness.
Saskia Plomp is a Researcher and Teacher at Utrecht University's Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, specifically within the Department of Clinical Sciences, where she focuses on equine health care and research. Her work centers on equine joint biomechanics, cartilage pathology, and innovative treatment approaches for equine orthopedic conditions. Dr. Plomp's research primarily investigates equine articular cartilage properties, osteochondral defects, joint inflammation models, and intervertebral disc degeneration in horses. Her work spans from basic science examining the composition and biomechanical properties of equine tissues to translational research developing and testing novel therapeutic approaches. She has made significant contributions to understanding how different types of cartilage damage affect joint function over time, and her research often employs advanced imaging techniques like micro-CT to evaluate tissue conditions. Her collaborative work spans multiple institutions and involves interdisciplinary approaches combining veterinary medicine, biomaterials science, and regenerative medicine. Analysis of Dr. Plomp's extensive publication record reveals a strong focus on equine joint pathology and repair mechanisms. Her research demonstrates expertise in creating and evaluating equine disease models, particularly for studying cartilage damage, joint inflammation, and intervertebral disc degeneration. She has contributed significantly to understanding the structural, compositional, and functional changes that occur in equine joints following injury. Her more recent work shows increasing interest in regenerative approaches, including stem cell therapies and novel biomaterials for tissue repair. The collaborative nature of her research is evident through her extensive co-authorship with experts across various disciplines. While specific advising information isn't detailed in the available materials, Dr. Plomp's extensive publication record spanning over a decade suggests active mentorship of students and junior researchers in the field of equine veterinary medicine. Her work appears to be supported by research grants that enable the sophisticated experimental models and advanced imaging techniques described in her publications. Dr. Plomp's research appears to be conducted within specialized equine research facilities at Utrecht University that include capabilities for advanced imaging, biomechanical testing, and surgical interventions. Her collaborative network includes researchers working on biomaterials, tissue engineering, and regenerative medicine approaches for equine conditions.
Dr. Ellen Roelfsema is an Assistant Professor at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University , specializing in Equine Internal Medicine . She combines clinical practice at the University Clinic for Horses with teaching and research. Her career spans since her 2007 PhD on stress adaptations in horses, with residency in Equine Internal Medicine (2000–2006) and diplomate status in the European College of Equine Internal Medicine (ECEIM) since 2012. Education : DVM (1999) and PhD (2007) from Utrecht University Research interests focus on endocrinological and metabolic disorders (EMS, PPID), laminitis , equine exercise physiology , and digestive system diseases . Her work explores dietary impacts on reproduction, insulin resistance, and biomechanical interventions for obese ponies. Publications highlight trends in equine endocrinology , metabolic syndrome , and ultrasound-based diagnostics . She collaborates on consensus guidelines for metabolic disorders and contributes to overtraining biomarkers and neonatal endocrinology . Teaching includes courses on Equine Metabolism , Endocrinology , and Donkey Health . She supervises Bachelor and Master students in clinical rotations and research projects.
Dr. Nico Schoemaker is an Assistant Professor at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine , Utrecht University, specializing in Internal Medicine of Companion Animals . A dual-certified specialist in Avian Medicine and Small Mammal Medicine, he treats birds, ferrets, and reptiles while contributing extensively to teaching and research. Research Interests include: Adrenal tumor etiology in ferrets Feather damaging behavior in parrots Preventative care for exotic animals Emerging viral diseases in rabbits Development of species-specific medical devices Notable Research Trends across 152 publications reveal focus on comparative endocrinology, exotic animal welfare, and translational medicine. His work bridges clinical practice with laboratory research, often involving collaborations with Docsinnovent (UK) and Wageningen University. Awards : AAV Speaker(s) of the Year Award 2017 Media Engagement highlights his role as a public expert during rabbit VHD outbreaks (2015) and contributions to Science Weekend (2018). He has advised on animal welfare in national media since 2014.
