Joske Bunders-Aelen

Prof. Joske Bunders-Aelen is a Visiting Professor at the Athena Institute within the Faculty of Science at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam. Their research focuses on mental health systems, community-based healthcare, juvenile justice policy, and mixed-methods evaluation. Recent work emphasizes India's mental health infrastructure, volunteer systems, and pandemic response strategies.

Research Interests:

• Mental Health Systems Strengthening
• Community Health Worker Empowerment
• Justice System Reforms for Youth
• Global Health Crisis Interventions

Recent publications highlight innovative approaches to trauma-informed care, juvenile justice frameworks, and sustainable volunteer-based clinics. Over 50 PhD theses supervised reflect deep engagement with interdisciplinary health challenges. Active in collaborative projects like the 2011-2017 'BE BasicCSG/Comm&SocVal/F09.003' initiative on societal value in science. Frequently presents at academic forums on topics ranging from ecological genomics governance to public-private healthcare partnerships.