Martijn Katan

Martijn Katan is a Visiting Professor of Nutrition at the Department of Health Sciences, VU University Amsterdam. He has held numerous academic roles across institutions such as Wageningen University, Nijmegen University School of Medicine, and the Royal Netherlands Academy of Sciences. His research spans diet-cardiovascular interactions, Mendelian randomization, obesity, food composition, and research integrity, with groundbreaking work on trans fats, sugary drinks, and cholesterol-raising factors in coffee.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Molecular Biology, University of Amsterdam
• Chemistry and Biochemistry studies, University of Amsterdam

Katan's research established Mendelian randomization as a critical epidemiological tool and revealed harmful effects of trans fats and sugary beverages. He actively communicates science through columns in the Dutch daily NRC and popular books on nutrition, blending academic rigor with public engagement.

Honors and Awards:

• Lifetime Achievement Award (2019)
• David Kritchevsky Award (2008)
• European Nutrition Award (2003)
• European Lipid Science Award (2004)