Roel Custers appointed associate professor: “Knee problems take over lives. I want to change that.”

Knee problems affect millions of people and can take over a person’s life. Roel Custers, orthopedic surgeon and researcher at UMC Utrecht, has dedicated his career to changing that. With his recent appointment as associate professor, a new chapter begins. One of expanded research, greater visibility, and the hope of reaching more patients. 

Knee problems are widespread and will only become more common in the years ahead, driven by an ageing population and rising obesity rates. That makes the work of Roel Custers more urgent than ever. UMC Utrecht has appointed him as associate professor in recognition of his outstanding contributions to research, education, and management in joint-preserving orthopaedic care.  

Roel and his team develop innovative treatments for knee problems, conditions that are common, and often debilitating. "As an orthopedic surgeon, I treat people with knee problems every day, both young and old. These problems can take over their lives, and I want to help everyone as best as I can." More research is much needed, he says: "We need to better understand how knee problems develop, how to detect them early, and how to treat them better."

From lab to patient 

Roel and his team have developed a broad range of treatment options for patients with knee problems, including cell therapy for cartilage defects and bone and cartilage tissue transplants. These joint-preserving approaches aim to help patients avoid or delay the need for a total knee replacement. Despite the progress already made, he is clear-eyed about how much work remains. “We still need more clinical research before they can reach more patients.” 

Recognition for the whole team 

For Roel, the title means more than personal recognition. “It’s not just a recognition for me, but also for all the people I’ve worked with, because research isn’t something you do alone,” he says. He also sees it as a boost for the field. “This recognition also provides greater visibility for this line of research, both within UMC Utrecht and our partners. This title marks the start of years of innovative research into knee problems.”  

Driven by people 

Combining a busy clinical practice with an active research career is demanding, but Roel finds energy in both his work and the people he works with. “I’m grateful to work in a setting where I can do so much research. We have many unique facilities at the UMC Utrecht and a wealth of knowledge and support,” he says. “I’m thrilled when I can help develop new treatments, both in the lab and with patients. And it’s a joy to do this with passionate colleagues and to mentor people who also want to contribute.”