Kevin Ariën

Kevin Ariën is a Professor of Virology at the University of Antwerp, leading the Department of Biomedical Sciences. He also heads the Virology Unit and directs the Virus BSL3 facility at the Institute of Tropical Medicine Antwerp (ITM). His research focuses on HIV, arboviruses (e.g., Chikungunya, Dengue), Ebola, and SARS-CoV-2, emphasizing diagnostic tool development and molecular interactions. He co-directs the WHO Collaborating Centre for HIV/AIDS Diagnostics and leads projects like RESTOREID and e-FabRIC. Awards include the 2015 Royal Flemish Academy Science Communication Prize. His work spans clinical diagnostics, vaccine research, and global health collaborations in DR Congo, Peru, and Cuba.

• Education: MSc from Vrije Universiteit Brussel (2001), PhD in Virology from University of Antwerp (2005).
• Key roles: ITM Virology Unit Head (2014), Department Head (2022), WHO Collaborating Centre co-director (2020).
• Research Themes: Emerging viruses, diagnostics, immune responses, and vector-host interactions.
• Grants/Projects: European Commission-funded RESTOREID (ecosystem restoration) and e-FabRIC (equine antibody manufacturing).
• Awards: Recognized for science communication and contributions to virology.