Jo Van Ginderachter

Jo Van Ginderachter is a Full Professor of Immunology at Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) since 2019 and a VIB Group Leader since 2012. He leads the Myeloid Cell Immunology Lab (MCI), focusing on understanding myeloid cell heterogeneity in inflammation and cancer. His work integrates genomics, transcriptomics, and nanobody-based tools to study macrophage subpopulations in tumors, liver (Kupffer cells), and brain (microglia). Key contributions include discoveries on long-term immune impacts of infections on Kupffer cells and nanobody applications for imaging/drug delivery. He co-founded ABSCINT, a VUB spin-off advancing PET imaging technologies. He holds a PhD from VUB (1990) and has staff scientist experience at VIB (2003–present). His lab collaborates widely, including with Prof. Kiavash Movahedi on liver immunology and Prof. Carl De Trez on sleeping sickness therapies.

Research emphasizes targeted therapies using nanobodies to modulate myeloid cells, with clinical translation goals. His team includes postdocs, PhD students, and technical staff, supported by grants such as a €3M financing round for ABSCINT’s clinical trials.