The national reference center for respiratory pathogens in Belgium is responsible for performing high-level diagnostics, surveillance, and epidemiological studies on a wide range of microorganisms that cause respiratory infections, including SARS-CoV-2, RSV and Influenza virus. It serves as a specialized laboratory, providing expert analyses, confirmation tests, and guidance for clinicians and public health authorities. The NRC is a consortium between UZ Leuven (coord), Sciensano and UA / UZA.

I teach clinical microbiology at the faculty of medicine and several other courses related to Global Health and Pandemic Preparedness.

I make sure younger researchers can develop their skills in a dynamic and safe environment. The people I coach have different backgrounds (MD, biomedical sciences, engineering, AI, psychology). This is probably the part of my job I like most :-)

The Laboratory of Clinical Microbiology at KU Leuven focuses on advancing the understanding, diagnosis, and treatment of infectious diseases caused by bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Its research spans the development of novel diagnostic techniques, the study of antimicrobial resistance mechanisms, and the co-development of innovative therapeutic strategies.

In the event of a public health threat, health authorities take measures to minimize the risk to the Belgian population. The role of the Risk Assessment Group (RAG) is to analyze any signal that may have an impact on public health, and propose prevention and control measures to the health authorities (Risk Management Group), who decide on the measures to be applied. The Risk Assessment Group is coordinated by Sciensano.

The Belgian First Aid & Support Team is a rapid response mechanism organized by the Belgian government to provide immediate humanitarian assistance in the aftermath of major disasters abroad. Its primary function is to deploy medical teams, search-and-rescue units, and logistical support to affected regions as quickly as possible, working in close coordination with international organizations and local authorities. This rapid mobilization capability helps mitigate damage, stabilize the… Show more The Belgian First Aid & Support Team is a rapid response mechanism organized by the Belgian government to provide immediate humanitarian assistance in the aftermath of major disasters abroad. Its primary function is to deploy medical teams, search-and-rescue units, and logistical support to affected regions as quickly as possible, working in close coordination with international organizations and local authorities. This rapid mobilization capability helps mitigate damage, stabilize the situation, and support the recovery efforts in communities struck by emergencies around the world. Show less

The Advisory Committee on Public Health Emergencies (ACPHE) is a panel of independent experts established by the European Commission to help guide EU-level responses to serious cross-border health threats. Its role involves offering scientific advice on preparedness, prevention, and management strategies during emergencies such as pandemics.

The VRGT (Vlaamse Vereniging voor Respiratoire Gezondheid en Tuberculose) is a Flemish organization dedicated to improving respiratory health and controlling tuberculosis in Belgium. It offers prevention programs, supports healthcare professionals, and provides public education to reduce the burden of respiratory diseases.

TB Reach (WHO / Stop TB partnership) implements innovative strategies in order to strenghten the case-detection of Tuberculosis in low-income countries. www.stoptb.org

LabCap Program

PhD candidate (part time)