‘USP WorkWalks’ breaks through sedentary patterns and now also receives national recognition with the BeweegAward
The Dutch sit an average of nine hours a day, making them the “European Champion of Sitting,” which is detrimental to health and performance. USP WorkWalks, an inspiring initiative by HU University of Applied Sciences Utrecht in collaboration with Utrecht University, the municipality of Utrecht, and the Utrecht Science Park Foundation, is breaking this pattern. The initiative has now also received national recognition. The initiators received the 2025 Exercise Award from State Secretary Judith Tielen (Health, Welfare and Sport) on Friday, January 16th. In addition to various administrators and guests, Alderwoman Eva Oosters and artist and ambassador of the ‘BeweegAlliantie’ Antje Monteiro were present at the award ceremony.
Wennink plan: Life Sciences and biotechnology are important growth drivers for the earning capacity of the Netherlands
The Dutch Life Sciences and biotechnology sector can make a much larger contribution to the Netherlands’ economic strength. This is shown in a new growth strategy presented today as part of Peter Wennink’s advisory report. The report also highlights Utrecht Science Park as one of the key innovation locations and sources of progress and growth.
The Coïmbrapad is set to change. And you can vote on the design.
The Coïmbrapad, the small square between the SPAR and the University Library, will have a new look this spring. Everyone can vote for one of the two designs currently on the table. One of the initiators, Rania Shehata, explains why this is needed.
Works on the tram track at Padualaan in Utrecht Science Park
To make public transport future-proof, Strukton is carrying out works on the tram track on Padualaan in Utrecht Science Park on behalf of the Province of Utrecht. In mid-January, works on the track will start near Weg tot de Wetenschap, just beyond the tram stop.
High-tech robots and laser scanners: this laboratory is where the food of the future is being discovered.
A remarkable world of high-tech robots, laser scanners, climate chambers, and other advanced equipment is hidden inside an inconspicuous, windowless building at Utrecht Science Park—a world entirely focused on the question of how to feed the global population in 2050.
Together in action for 3FM Serious Request and Spieren voor Spieren
During 3FM Serious Request the whole of the Netherlands came into action for Spieren voor Spieren. A lot of money was raised that can really make a difference for children with a muscular disease: the final amount is € 18,423,566. With the money, Spieren voor Spieren can do research on treatment and medication, faster diagnosis and exercise for children with a muscular disease.
Vilnius-Utrecht Center opens as a hub for emerging research leaders in Advanced Disease Modeling
A new international research hub has officially opened its doors: the Vilnius–Utrecht Center for Advanced Disease Modeling. This strategic initiative unites Vilnius University in Lithuania (in close partnership with Vilnius University Hospital Santaros Klinikos), UMC Utrecht, and Utrecht University . Its mission is to build an internationally competitive translational research environment that accelerates discovery, diagnostic innovation, and personalized medicine.
Isabel Arends appointed Director-General of the RIVM
Isabel Arends has been appointed Director-General of the National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM) at the Ministry of Health, Welfare and Sport. Her appointment will take effect on 1 April 2026.
Princess Máxima Center and International Atomic Energy Agency join forces to improve radiotherapy treatments for children
In the presence of Her Majesty Queen Máxima, representatives of the Princess Máxima Center and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) today signed a four-year partnership aimed at improving practical knowledge on the use of radiotherapy for children with cancer.
MedTech sector launches national growth plan: technology must support Dutch healthcare and structurally strengthen economic growth
The Dutch MedTech sector is presenting an ambitious growth plan today that aims to elevate the Netherlands to the European top by 2035. UMC Utrecht contributed to this plan, and it was co-presented by Carina Hilders (Chair of the UMC Utrecht Executive Board).
Parking rates at Utrecht Science Park to change from 1 January 2026
From 1 January 2026, parking rates at Utrecht Science Park will be adjusted. The Municipality of Utrecht and the owners of the publicly accessible parking facilities at Utrecht Science Park have reached a joint agreement on this.
Winter closure Botanic Gardens
The Botanic Gardens go into hybernation as of Monday 1 December 2025. On Sunday 1 March 2026 you are most welcome again!