Opening Utrecht Science Week: Utrecht Science Lecture by Professor Dr. Peter Luijten
During the Utrecht Science Week, Peter Luijten and colleagues showcase how Utrecht Life Sciences transforms scientific research into societal impact.
From Science to Impact: Utrecht Life Sciences
There are few places in the world that bring together as many disciplines vital to cutting-edge research in the life sciences as the Utrecht Science Park. From core molecular biology, chemistry, mathematics, and physics to translational and clinical sciences. From molecules to microorganisms, plants, animals, and humans. From drug development to medical technology. All of these areas of expertise are within walking distance of each other. This lecture will highlight the unique achievements of Utrecht Life Sciences and explore the opportunities for future societal impact.
Peter Luijten is Vice Dean of the Strategic Theme Life Sciences at Utrecht University and Professor of Functional Medical Imaging. Before his retirement from Utrecht University in October, he will deliver the Utrecht Science Lecture. His talk, titled “From Science to Impact: Utrecht Life Sciences,” will feature contributions from talented colleagues across various thematic Life Sciences communities, including Tzviya Zeev Ben Mordehai, Nico van den Berg, Karijn Suijkerbuijk, and Marianna Tryfonidou.
Utrecht Science Week 2024
Utrecht Science Week will take place from Friday, September 27 to Sunday, October 6. It is an annual event hosted at Utrecht Science Park, offering a week-long open house for anyone interested in (applied) science. The program features inspiring lectures, interactive workshops, guided tours, and thought-provoking interviews—all centered around science at Utrecht Science Park, with a strong focus on the themes of health and sustainability.
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.
The HU ORM program is moving to the Utrecht Science Park.
The Entrepreneurship & Retail Management (ORM) program will relocate from Amersfoort to the Utrecht Science Park as of September 1, 2026. According to program manager Lisette Luijk (Institute for Marketing & Commerce), it is mainly about one thing: more connection.
Danny Sahtoe receives NVBMB prize
Danny Sahtoe has been awarded the prestigious NVBMB prize, a prize that gives recognition to the work of a highly talented young independent researcher in the field of biochemistry or molecular biology. The prize includes funding to organize a one-day symposium on a topic of choice. Danny Sahtoe is group leader at the Hubrecht Institute and Investigator at Oncode Institute.
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.