Impressive developments at Utrecht Science Park Bilthoven
On Thursday 14 November, Utrecht Science Park Bilthoven opened its doors for a unique look behind the scenes. The Utrecht Science Park Café highlighted several impressive topics that are in full development in Bilthoven.
After a brief introduction by Jef de Clerq (CEO Poonawalla Science Park B.V.) and Jan Henk van der Velden ( managing director of the Utrecht Science Park), Jorrit van Hoorn (director of Corporate Development) took us through the latest developments of Utrecht Science Park Bilthoven.
Utrecht Science Park Bilthoven is home to Bilthoven Biologicals (BBio), a major producer of polio vaccines, among other things. BBio also has a crucial role to play in responding to a possible new pandemic. Over the past year, the Pandemic Preparedness Centre has been developed. This centre ensures that enough production capacity is available for vaccine production in possible future emergencies affecting public health.
RIVM, currently still housed in Bilthoven, is scheduled to move to the Utrecht Science Park during 2025. This offers new opportunities for both locations.
The interesting presentation was followed by a tour of Utrecht Science Park Bilthoven, past the special facilities.
Utrecht Science Park Bilthoven
Utrecht Science Park Bilthoven is one of the two satellite locations of the Utrecht Science Park. Bilthoven is home to companies and organisations in the fields of life sciences and sustainability. Utrecht Science Park Bilthoven specialises in product development, product improvement and manufacturing with a focus on vaccines.
31 May running festival at Utrecht Science Park; read all about accessibility
On Sunday 31 May 2026, Utrecht will once again be fully dedicated to the HiPRO Utrecht Marathon supported by Utrecht Science Park. With a large amount of participants in the previous edition, the event has grown into a staple for runners from Utrecht and far beyond. This year also promises to be a special edition, featuring the new addition of the Dutch National Championships Half Marathon (NK Halve Marathon). Utrecht Science Park will once again be the vibrant heart of the event, where sport, energy, and connection come together.
Jan Henk van der Velden leaves Utrecht Science Park Foundation and becomes the new Managing Director at Utrechtse Heuvelrug National Park
After nine years, Jan Henk van der Velden will step down as Managing Director of the Utrecht Science Park Foundation effective this coming July 1. As of September 1, 2026, Jan Henk will become Managing Director of the Utrechtse Heuvelrug National Park Foundation. He announced his departure several months ago.
UMC Utrecht takes third surgical robot into use
UMC Utrecht has commissioned a third surgical robot. With the arrival of the latest generation, the Da Vinci 5, even more patients can be operated on with minimal stress. This leads to fewer complications and faster recovery. “Apart from the benefits for patients, the Da Vinci 5 also allows us to train even better,” says Jelle Ruurda, gastrointestinal surgeon and professor of robot-assisted minimally invasive surgery. “At the touch of a button, colleagues can watch remotely, and even learn from previous operations. This way we share knowledge faster and more widely.” The hospital is thus building on a tradition of 25 years at the forefront of robotic surgery.
Inspiring and connecting visit by the President of Estonia to Utrecht Science Park
On Wednesday, April 8, 2026, the President of Estonia, Mr. Alar Karis, together with his wife Sirje Karis, ambassador Mr. Paul Teesalu and a delegation from the Estonian Health Ecosystem, visited the Utrecht Science Park. During the visit, much knowledge was exchanged and valuable connections were made.