معرفی
Dr. Frederik Verweij is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Biophysics at Utrecht University's Faculty of Science since 2021. His research focuses on the intricate mechanisms of extracellular vesicle (EV) biology, particularly exosomes, using advanced imaging techniques in zebrafish models. Prior to his current position, he served as a Researcher at INSERM U1266, IPNP in Paris (2017-2021) and completed postdoctoral work at the Institut Curie in Paris (2014-2017), where he investigated exosome research under the guidance of Dr. Graça Raposo. Dr. Verweij earned his PhD from the Exosome Research Group led by Dr. D. Michiel Pegtel (2009-2014).
Dr. Verweij's research interests span multiple aspects of cell biology, with particular expertise in exosome biogenesis, trafficking, and function. His work integrates cell biology, molecular biology, biochemistry, and advanced imaging techniques to study protein trafficking, virology, and signaling in the endo-exosomal pathway. He has pioneered the use of zebrafish as a model organism for in vivo EV imaging, developing innovative approaches for live imaging, dynamic correlative light and electron microscopy (CLEM), optogenetics, and electron microscopy. His laboratory investigates how extracellular vesicles mediate intercellular communication in physiological and pathological contexts, with implications for cancer, viral infections, and potential therapeutic applications.
Analysis of Dr. Verweij's publication record reveals a strong trajectory in extracellular vesicle research, with increasing focus on in vivo imaging techniques and physiological relevance. His work has evolved from basic mechanisms of exosome biogenesis and viral protein sorting to sophisticated in vivo models that capture the dynamic nature of EV communication within living organisms. The zebrafish model has become a cornerstone of his research approach, allowing unprecedented visualization of EV trafficking between organs and during development. Recent publications highlight technical innovations in EV imaging and quantification, demonstrating his leadership in methodological advancements within the EV field.
- ERC Starting grant - European Research Council 5-year grant (2021)
- Vidi award - Dutch Research Council (NWO) 5-year grant (2021)
- KWF Young Investigator Grant (2020)
- ASEMV 2020 Young Investigator Award
- INSERM CRCN laureate (tenure) via national competition (2020)
- Multiple featured abstracts and travel awards from ISEV meetings
Dr. Verweij has successfully secured substantial funding as both principal investigator (ERC Starting grant, Vidi award, KWF Young Investigator Grant) and co-PI (INCa PLBIO project, ARC project grants). His research group at Utrecht University combines expertise in cell biology, imaging, and zebrafish models to investigate fundamental questions in EV biology. He actively contributes to the scientific community through extensive peer review activities for high-impact journals and funding agencies, and has taken leadership roles in organizing international workshops, including co-chairing the first international 'EV imaging in vivo workshop' in 2020. Dr. Verweij serves on the scientific board of the French Society for Extracellular Vesicles and has established himself as a rising leader in the extracellular vesicle research community.
