Esther Marije Klop

Dr. Esther Marije Klop serves as the Managing Director of the Faculty of Science and Engineering at the University of Groningen, where she plays a key leadership role in the faculty's administration and strategic direction. She also holds the position of Vice-chair of the Supervisory Board of Stichting Esdal College in Emmen and is an active member of the Faculty Board.

Dr. Klop's research expertise lies in neuroscience, with a specialized focus on:

• Neural circuitry of the periaqueductal gray matter
• Spinal cord projections and pain pathways
• Nociception and pain processing mechanisms
• Defensive behavior neural substrates
• Neuroanatomical tracing techniques

Her research has primarily utilized cat and guinea pig models to investigate the intricate neural connections involved in sensory processing and pain modulation. Dr. Klop has made significant contributions to understanding how different brain regions, particularly the periaqueductal gray, integrate sensory information and mediate defensive responses.

Dr. Klop's publication record demonstrates a consistent research trajectory from 2001-2010, with her most influential work examining the parabrachial nucleus as a critical link in nociceptive information transmission to midbrain dopaminergic neurons. Her research shows strong thematic continuity in mapping neural pathways with particular attention to pain processing circuits and their relationship to defensive behaviors.

As Managing Director, Dr. Klop oversees the strategic operations of the Faculty of Science and Engineering, applying her deep understanding of academic research to institutional leadership. Her position bridges administrative responsibilities with her scholarly background in neuroscience.