Jan van de Winkel to deliver the Utrecht Science Lecture during the opening of Utrecht Science Week 2025
We are thrilled to announce that Prof. Dr. Jan van de Winkel, President & CEO of Genmab, will present the keynote opening Utrecht Science Lecture during the 2025 Utrecht Science Week on September 26. As a pioneering scientist and industry leader in antibody-based therapies, Jan van de Winkel has been at the forefront of groundbreaking advancements in immunotherapy, shaping the future of cancer treatment and beyond.
With more than 30 years of experience in therapeutic antibodies, Jan van de Winkel has played a pivotal role in translating cutting-edge science into life-changing medicines. As a co-founder of Genmab, he has led the company’s journey from an ambitious startup to a global end-to-end biotech powerhouse. In addition to his executive role, he holds a professorship in immunotherapy at Utrecht University, contributing to academic research and fostering the next generation of scientific leaders.
In his lecture, titled “Cracking the Code on Cancer and Other Serious Diseases: The Past, Present, and Future of Immunotherapy”, he will explore how immunotherapy is revolutionizing medicine. From early discoveries to today’s breakthroughs in cancer care, he will offer insights into the evolving role of antibody therapies, the next frontiers in biotechnology, and the power of collaboration and AI in driving innovation.
As Utrecht Science Week celebrates its fifth edition, this keynote lecture will highlight Utrecht’s ambition as the “Heart of Health” and the Utrecht Science Park as a unique life sciences ecosystem for cutting-edge research and medical innovation. Join us to gain a front-row perspective on the future of immunotherapy and how partnerships between academia, industry, and healthcare can accelerate progress for patients worldwide.
You can register here.
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.
Fantastic atmosphere at the Utrecht Science Park during the Utrecht Marathon 2026
On Sunday, May 31, Utrecht was all about sport: the Utrecht Marathon, with the Utrecht Science Park serving as both the start and finish location, brought together thousands of enthusiastic runners and spectators.