Romain Meeusen

Romain Meeusen is a Professor and head of the Department of Human Physiology at Vrije Universiteit Brussel, with an additional professorship at James Cook University's School of Public Health, Tropical Medicine and Rehabilitation Sciences in Queensland, Australia. His research explores the intersection of neuroscience and exercise physiology, particularly how neurotransmitters influence human performance, training, and rehabilitation. He has contributed extensively to understanding thermoregulation, neurogenesis, cognition, and nutrition in health and disease, and is a leading voice in sports science research and biomechanics.

• Director, Human Performance Lab, Vrije Universiteit Brussel
• Scientific advisor, Lotto Cycling Institute (Lotto-Soudal professional cycling team)
• Former Board member, European College of Sport Science (2000-2013) and American College of Sports Medicine (2010-2013)
• Past President, Belgian Society of Kinesiology and Belgian Federation of Sports Physiotherapy

Research Interests

His work centers on Exercise and the Brain in Health & Disease, investigating the role of neurotransmitters in athletic performance, recovery, and rehabilitation. Recent projects examine thermoregulation, brain plasticity (neurogenesis), cognitive impacts of exercise, and nutritional strategies for optimizing health. He bridges biomechanics and sports technology with neurophysiological mechanisms, making him a key figure in applied sports science.

Scientific Contributions

• Over 500 peer-reviewed articles and book chapters
• 18 books on sports physiotherapy
• Over 900 national and international conference lectures

Honors and Leadership

• Belgian Francqui Chair (2009)
• Two named lecturing chairs at Vrije Universiteit Brussel
• Leadership roles in Belgian Society of Kinesiology, Belgian Federation of Sports Physiotherapy, and society of kinesiology Belgium
• Board member of European College of Sport Science (ECSS) and American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM)

Labs and Collaborations

He leads the Human Performance Lab at Vrije Universiteit Brussel, collaborating with elite athletes and serving as the scientific advisor for the Lotto-Soudal professional cycling team through the Lotto Cycling Institute. His work integrates laboratory research with real-world applications in high-performance sports and clinical rehabilitation.