Matthias Barz is a Professor of Biotherapeutic Delivery at the Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research (LACDR) , Faculty of Science , Leiden University . He leads the Barz Lab , focusing on polymer science and biomedical applications of functional nanoparticles. Professor of Biotherapeutic Delivery (Leiden University) Head of the Division of BioTherapeutics Researcher in reactive polymer systems and nanocarrier design His research bridges polymer chemistry with biomedical applications, emphasizing polypept(o)ide-based nanocarriers for targeted drug delivery in cancer, inflammation, and neurodegenerative diseases. Key areas include: Stimuli-responsive polymer architectures Secondary structure-driven self-assembly Core-crosslinked micelles for controlled cargo release Redox-sensitive disulfide bonds for intracellular delivery Protein-repellent nanoparticle shells Riboflavin-functionalized nanocarriers for tumor targeting The lab's publications highlight advancements in polysarcosine-containing copolymers , orthogonal functional group utilization , and modular nanoparticle platforms with precise control over morphology and function. Current projects explore the clinical translation of these systems for immunotherapy and diagnostics. Scientific recognition includes: Dozentenpreis des Fonds der Chemischen Industrie (2018) PMSE Young Investigator Award (2018) Nachwuchswissenschaftlerstipendium der GDCh (2017) His team trains graduate students in polymer synthesis, nanoparticle characterization, and biomedical application testing. Collaborations span institutions like the University of Tokyo and Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz , with ongoing projects under the SFB 1066 initiative for malignant melanoma immunotherapy.
Anna Salvati is an Associate Professor specializing in nanomedicine and drug delivery systems. Her research focuses on nanoparticle-cell interactions, biomolecular corona formation, and the physicochemical properties governing nanomaterial behavior in biological environments. Key research themes include cellular uptake mechanisms, toxicity of nanomaterials, and nanoparticle targeting strategies. Recent publications highlight her work on nanoparticle stability, membrane interactions, and environmental impacts of microplastics. Her studies integrate multiomics approaches, advanced imaging, and interlaboratory validation to address challenges in nanomedicine design and safety testing. Current projects explore the role of high-density lipoproteins in nanoparticle functionality and the modulation of drug release kinetics through material engineering.
Jan C.M. van Hest is a Full Professor at Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e), holding positions in the Department of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry and the Institute for Complex Molecular Systems (ICMS) . He leads research at the intersection of polymer chemistry and biomedicine, focusing on bio-inspired materials, nanomedicine, and artificial cells. His work includes developing synthetic vaccines, drug delivery systems, and adaptive nano/microcompartments mimicking cellular functions. Academic Background : Ph.D. in macro-organic chemistry from TU/e (1996), postdoc at the University of Massachusetts (protein engineering), and industry roles at DSM (1997–2000). Since 2016, he has held the Bio-organic Chemistry chair at TU/e, supervising over 30 PhD students and co-founding startups like Encapson and Noviosense. Research Highlights : His research spans nanomedicine (e.g., polymersomes for cancer treatment) and artificial cells (e.g., synthetic organelles). Recent work includes therapeutic nanovaccines and self-propelled platinum-loaded stomatocytes. His publications span Nature Nanotechnology , Nature Chemistry , and Angewandte Chemie . Awards & Collaborations : Recipient of the ERC Advanced Grant (2015) and NWO Gravitation Grant (2013). Partnerships with GSK, Zoetis, and industry initiatives like the TKI-LSH EUREKA project. Engages in education through courses like Biochemistry and Introduction to Chemistry & Chemical Technology. Labs & Teams : Core member of ICMS, leading interdisciplinary projects in functional molecular systems. Active in training the next generation of researchers through postgraduate programs like ICMS PTN.
Hans Bouwmeester is a Full Professor in Toxicology at Wageningen University & Research, specializing in chemical risk assessment, nanomaterial toxicity, and in vitro modeling. His work focuses on integrating artificial intelligence and physiologically based kinetic (PBK) models to predict toxic effects of contaminants like organophosphate pesticides, microplastics, and mycotoxins. He leads projects exploring the health impacts of foodborne contaminants in inflammatory bowel disease and developing animal-free testing methods. Key collaborations include EU initiatives like the ONTOX project and the GUTTEST program, which utilize advanced in vitro models such as gut-on-a-chip systems. Research interests span toxicokinetics, nanoplastics exposure, and the application of Bayesian networks for nanomaterial hazard ranking. His team addresses translational challenges in linking in vitro data to in vivo outcomes, with a focus on bile acid metabolism and cardiotoxicity prediction. Bouwmeester has supervised over 10 PhD candidates, including studies on microplastic hazard assessment, nanomaterial gastrointestinal fate, and AI-driven data extraction for risk assessment. Notable contributions include datasets on nanoplastics' protein corona effects and transcriptomic analyses of intestinal cell responses. His work is published in journals like Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety , Toxicology , and Environmental Science & Technology , emphasizing open-access research and interdisciplinary approaches to chemical safety.
Prof. Robbert Jan Kok is a Professor of Drug Delivery Technology at Utrecht University's Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences (UIPS) and Programme Director for the Bachelor of Pharmacy. He obtained his Pharmacy degree (1993) and PhD in renal drug targeting (1998) from the University of Groningen, followed by postdoctoral research on endothelial-targeted drug delivery. His work spans curriculum development for pharmacy programs and interdisciplinary research in drug innovation. Research Focus: Kok specializes in advanced drug delivery systems, including nanomedicines for kinase inhibitors, 3D-printed formulations, and stimuli-responsive carriers. Key areas include: Targeted delivery to tumors, kidneys, and inflamed tissues Polymeric micelles, liposomes, and microspheres for sustained release Biopharmaceutics and pharmacokinetic optimization Publication Trends: His recent work emphasizes nanotechnology-enabled therapies (e.g., curcumin nanodelivery, photodynamic micelles) and device-integrated drug release (3D-printed implants, macroencapsulation). Studies frequently combine material science with preclinical validation in cancer, renal diseases, and inflammatory disorders. Academic Leadership: Kok oversees student advising, laboratory operations, and international collaborations at UIPS. His team explores translational applications of drug delivery platforms, including partnerships for vascularized tissue engineering and combination therapies.
Dr. Flávia Moreira De Sousa is a Tenure-Track Assistant Professor at the Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biopharmacy, Groningen Research Institute of Pharmacy, University of Groningen. With a pharmacy background and a Ph.D. in Biomedical Sciences from the University of Porto, she completed postdoctoral research at Imperial College London, a Marie Curie MINDED fellowship at Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (2021-2022), and a WINS fellowship at Adolphe Merkle Institute. Ph.D. in Biomedical Sciences, University of Porto, Portugal Postdoctoral Researcher, Imperial College London Marie Curie MINDED Fellowship, Italy WINS Research Fellowship, Switzerland Her research pioneers biological nanotherapies for brain cancer, focusing on anti-angiogenic monoclonal antibody encapsulation to normalize glioblastoma vasculature and develop cancer nanovaccines. Her work spans Nanomedicine , Drug Delivery , and Tumor Microenvironment engineering, with recent publications analyzing β-carotene nanocarriers (2025), glioblastoma nanovaccination strategies (2024), and cytokine-based immunotherapy (2024). Scientific recognition includes 13 international awards and over 1800 citations (H-index 24). Key grants: Fulbright Program Marie Sklodowska-Curie Fellowship MIT Innovators Under 35 Female Science Talents initiative She collaborates across disciplines with teams at Imperial College London, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, and Adolphe Merkle Institute, contributing to UN Sustainable Development Goals through biomedical innovation.
Birgit Koch is a Full Professor in the Department of Pharmacy at Erasmus MC, affiliated with the Erasmus School of Health Professions. Her work is deeply rooted in clinical pharmacology, with a focus on optimizing drug therapy through pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic modeling. Her research interests span pharmacokinetics , pharmacodynamics , therapeutic drug monitoring , and antibiotic dosing , particularly in vulnerable populations such as critically ill and pediatric patients. She has made significant contributions to the understanding of vancomycin and beta-lactam antibiotic pharmacology. The recent articles highlight a consistent trend in clinical pharmacology research, emphasizing population pharmacokinetic modeling , individualized dosing , and evidence-based drug monitoring . Her work bridges laboratory data with real-world clinical outcomes, especially in intensive care and oncology settings. While no specific scientific awards are listed in the provided text, her extensive publication record and leadership in high-impact studies suggest recognition within the field. She has supervised multiple research outputs, indicating an active role in mentoring junior researchers and contributing to academic training. Although specific grants are not mentioned, her involvement in studies like the DOLPHIN trial implies participation in funded research projects. Birgit Koch is part of a robust research network at Erasmus MC, collaborating with experts in oncology, infectious diseases, and clinical pharmacy. Her work is integrated into larger clinical research initiatives, particularly those involving drug optimization and patient-centered pharmacotherapy.
Dr. Berend Jan Bosch is an Associate Professor at Utrecht University's Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, affiliated with the Department of Biomolecular Health Sciences, Infectious Diseases & Immunology. His research focuses on coronavirus-host interactions, viral entry mechanisms, and therapeutic development against emerging viruses including SARS-CoV-2, MERS-CoV, and porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV). His core research interests include coronavirus spike protein dynamics, host receptor interactions, viral evolution, and the development of antibody-based therapeutics and vaccines. Bosch investigates how coronaviruses jump between species and evade immune responses, with significant work on sialic acid binding domains and fusion activation mechanisms. Analysis of his 15 most recent publications reveals strong emphasis on: 1) Structural characterization of viral proteins, 2) Development of nanobodies and monoclonal antibodies against coronaviruses, 3) Host factor identification through genetic screens, 4) Novel vaccine platforms including nanoparticle displays, and 5) Cross-species transmission mechanisms. His work consistently bridges basic virology with therapeutic applications. Dr. Bosch has received the ESCMID Research Award 2015 for his contributions to infectious disease research. He leads the Bosch research group within the Utrecht Molecular Immunology Hub, collaborating extensively on international coronavirus research initiatives and therapeutic development projects.
Sabrina Santos Oliveira is an Associate Professor with a shared position between the Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Biophysics division of the Department of Biology and the Pharmaceutics division of the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences at Utrecht University's Faculty of Science. Her research focuses on Molecular Targeted Therapies, particularly using nanobodies to enhance the selectivity of photodynamic therapy for cancer treatment. Dr. Oliveira received her initial introduction to Utrecht University through an internship at the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences in 2004 during her studies at the Faculty of Pharmacy of Coimbra University in Portugal. After graduation, she obtained an individual doctoral grant from the Portuguese Foundation for Science and Technology (FCT) to complete her PhD research on Targeted Cancer Therapies (2004-2008). She then worked as a postdoc on nanobody-based tracers for optical molecular imaging (2008-2012). In 2012, she was awarded a VENI grant from the Netherlands Organisation for Research (NWO-STW), which allowed her to start her own research line focused on rendering photodynamic therapy more selective to cancer cells using nanobodies. In 2016, she received a Starting Grant from the European Research Council (ERC) to continue her research. She was appointed Assistant Professor in July 2016 and Associate Professor in May 2019. Dr. Oliveira's research group focuses on developing and evaluating improved therapies directed at relevant molecular targets. Her work primarily centers on nanobody-targeted photodynamic therapy, which uses the small size and binding specificity of nanobodies to target photosensitizers specifically to cancer cells. This approach aims to improve the selectivity of photodynamic therapy, which is currently limited by the non-specific interaction of hydrophobic photosensitizers with all cell types. Her ERC-funded KILLCANCER project (Starting Grant #677582) has investigated the mechanism of nanobody-targeted PDT and evaluated this approach in larger animals, with the goal of translating findings to human patients. The research has potential applications in treating various cancers, including feline oral carcinoma, which is being studied in collaboration with the University Clinic for Companion Animal Health. Analysis of Dr. Oliveira's recent publications reveals a strong focus on translating nanobody technology from basic research to clinical applications. Her work spans multiple therapeutic areas including cancer treatment, viral infection therapies, and advanced drug delivery systems. The research demonstrates significant translational potential, with applications in both human and veterinary medicine, particularly in improving cancer treatment options through more selective targeting approaches. VENI grant from Netherlands Organisation for Research (NWO-STW) (2012) Starting Grant from European Research Council (ERC) (2016) Individual doctoral grant from Portuguese Foundation for Science and Technology (FCT) Dr. Oliveira's laboratory includes a technician, multiple postdocs, and PhD students working on various aspects of nanobody-targeted therapies. Her research has been highlighted by the Morris Animal Foundation as a promising new treatment for cats suffering from oral squamous cell carcinoma, demonstrating the translational potential of her work from bench to bedside (and clinic). The collaborative nature of her research is evident in the numerous collaborations with other departments and institutions, including the University Medical Center Utrecht and veterinary clinics.
Hendrik Jan (Henk) Busscher is a Professor Emeritus in the Department of Biomedical Engineering at the University of Groningen, affiliated with the Faculty of Medical Sciences and the W.J. Kolff Institute. His research focuses on biomaterial-associated infections, microbial adhesion mechanisms, and surface modification strategies to prevent biofilm formation on medical implants. He has held leadership roles, including Head of the Department of Biomedical Engineering and Director-owner of consulting firm SASA BV, and serves as Editor of Colloids and Surfaces B: Biointerfaces . Research interests include physico-chemical interactions of biomaterials with biological components, antibiotic resistance, and nanotechnology applications in infection control. He has supervised over 79 PhD students and authored >636 publications, achieving an H-index of 58. Key contributions span biofilm dynamics, surface characterization techniques, and in vitro/in vivo infection models. His work emphasizes translational research, bridging academic and industrial partnerships in biomaterials innovation. Recent studies explore quantum dot synthesis for biomedical applications, pH-responsive drug delivery systems, and magnetic nanoparticle-based antibacterial strategies. Collaborations include global institutions and companies like Philips and Procter & Gamble. His interdisciplinary approach addresses sustainable healthcare challenges, particularly in preventing infections from medical devices.
Prof. Henny van der Mei is a Full Professor at the University of Groningen's Faculty of Medical Sciences, affiliated with the Man, Biomaterials and Microbes (MBM) department. His research focuses on biomaterial-associated infections, bacterial adhesion, and biofilm formation. He holds editorial roles at Colloids and Surfaces; Biofilms and FEMS Reviews Microbiology . Research Interests: Van der Mei's work centers on understanding how modified biomaterial surfaces influence bacterial adhesion and biofilm formation. Key areas include antimicrobial strategies for medical implants, nanotechnology applications in infection control, and the development of novel antibiofilm agents. His expertise spans biomaterials science, microbiology, and biomedical engineering. Recent Articles: His most recent studies explore carbon quantum dots for antimicrobial applications, macrophage interactions with Staphylococcus aureus, and single-atom catalysts for antibacterial therapy. He has published over 680 articles, with a focus on biofilm dispersal mechanisms and nanomaterial-based solutions to antibiotic resistance. Awards: While no specific awards are listed, his extensive research output and editorial roles highlight significant contributions to the field. Grants/Advising: Supervised over 100 works and actively participates in global initiatives like the European Water Tech Week. His activities include keynote speaking at conferences on biofilms, biomaterials, and water technology. Labs/Teams: Leads research in antimicrobial biomaterials and biofilm control at the UMCG, collaborating internationally on projects addressing infections in medical devices and water systems.
Gianni Pacella serves as an External employee at the University of Groningen, affiliated with the Faculty of Science and Engineering and specifically the Macromolecular Chemistry and New Polymeric Materials research group. His role involves cutting-edge research in photoresponsive and supramolecular materials, contributing to the university's strong reputation in chemical sciences and nanotechnology. Dr. Pacella holds a Master of Science (MSc) degree and recently completed his PhD in 2025 at the University of Groningen. His doctoral dissertation, "Tailoring Spiropyran Photoswitch for Polymeric and Supramolecular Systems", laid the foundation for his current research in smart materials. His primary research interests include Photochromics , Molecular Switches , Supramolecular Polymers , and Nanotechnology . Pacella investigates how dynamic control of chemical equilibria can enable responsive materials for applications ranging from artificial muscles to light-modulated proton transport. His work bridges fundamental chemistry with practical engineering solutions in adaptive materials. Analysis of Pacella's recent publications (2023-2025) reveals a consistent focus on stimuli-responsive materials, particularly using light and heat. Key themes include photoactuation in artificial muscles, negative photochromism for proton transport, and molecular motors for drug delivery. These studies frequently employ advanced techniques in polymer science and supramolecular chemistry. Within the Macromolecular Chemistry group, Pacella is part of a dynamic team led by Nobel laureate Prof. Ben Feringa. His work intersects with the Feringa group's expertise in molecular machines, contributing to collaborative projects on polymersomes, supramolecular assemblies, and next-generation smart materials for biomedical and engineering applications.
Behrouz Zandieh Doulabi is a Researcher at the Academic Centre for Dentistry Amsterdam (ACTA) and a Visiting Professor at the University of Tehran since 2013. He is affiliated with the Department of Oral Cell Biology, focusing on interdisciplinary research at the intersection of cell biology, biomaterials, and tissue engineering. His primary research interests include osteosarcoma, stem cell applications, and nanomedicine, with a strong emphasis on bone biology and cell differentiation mechanisms. Dr. Doulabi has been actively involved in collaborative research projects, including studies on bone growth under microgravity conditions and the effects of biomaterials on osteoblast/osteoclast behavior. He holds ancillary academic roles at the University of Tehran, where he contributes to the Research Center for New Technologies in Life Sciences Engineering as a member since 2013. His recent work explores the impact of fluid shear stress on bone cell signaling and the role of paracrine factors in osteoclastogenesis. He has supervised five PhD theses and maintains an active publication record in high-impact journals such as npj Microgravity and Current Issues in Molecular Biology . Contact: bzandiehdoulabi@acta.nl | ORCID
Mojtaba Falahati is a Researcher at Erasmus University Medical Center working within the Pathology department. His research focuses on the intersection of nanotechnology and cancer therapy, with particular emphasis on developing novel nanosystems for targeted drug delivery and cancer immunotherapy. Dr. Falahati's research interests span several key areas in nanomedicine and pharmacology: Nanoparticle-based cancer therapies Drug delivery systems for oncology applications Nanozymes and catalytic cancer therapy Protein-nanoparticle interactions in biological systems Pulmonary delivery of nanotherapeutics Targeted tumor treatment using advanced nanomaterials His publication record demonstrates expertise in developing innovative approaches to cancer treatment through nanotechnology. Recent work has focused on lipid-based nanosystems for immune therapy, catalytic imaging-guided cancer therapy using nanozymes, and core-shell nanostructures for targeted drug delivery. His research bridges the gap between materials science, pharmacology, and clinical oncology, with the goal of improving therapeutic outcomes for cancer patients. Dr. Falahati has established collaborations with researchers across multiple institutions, as evidenced by his co-authorship on numerous high-impact publications in top journals including Journal of Hematology and Oncology, Coordination Chemistry Reviews, and Advances in Colloid and Interface Science. His work has received significant attention in the scientific community, with several publications accumulating dozens of citations within a short timeframe.
Dr. Timo ten Hagen is an Associate Professor in the Department of Pathology at Erasmus MC, part of Erasmus University Rotterdam. His research focuses on cancer therapy, immunology, and nanomedicine, with an emphasis on targeted drug delivery systems and nanoparticle-based treatments. He has contributed to studies on immunoliposomes for cervical cancer, CD81-guided EV interactions in breast cancer, and lipid-based nanosystems for immune therapy. His work integrates molecular pharmacology with clinical applications, aiming to improve therapeutic efficacy and reduce side effects in oncology. Key areas of research include PD-L1 targeting, nanoparticle design, and catalytic imaging for theranostic applications. He has supervised 15 academic works, though student names are not specified here. Collaborations span interdisciplinary teams in Europe, addressing challenges in tumor biology and drug delivery mechanisms. His research outputs include peer-reviewed articles in journals like Journal of Controlled Release and Journal of Hematology and Oncology . Notable contributions involve dynamic in vitro models (e.g., cancer-on-a-chip) and systematic reviews on HPV viral load correlations with cervical disease severity. His work bridges basic science and clinical translation, emphasizing nanotechnology’s role in advancing oncology care.
