“Diergezondheid & Dierenwelzijn: Sleutel tot Duurzame Veehouderij”

As Chair in Farm Animal Health, I lead a dynamic research and teaching division focused on veterinary medicine and herd health in farm animals. My research centers on the epidemiology of infections in animal populations, aiming to unravel the mechanisms that drive disease distribution and assess the effectiveness of control measures.
 

To achieve this, my team integrates experimental, observational, and modeling studies, often collaborating with experts studying infection processes at the individual level. I believe that bridging individual and population-level research is key to advancing our understanding of disease dynamics.
 

Throughout my career, I have studied epizootic, zoonotic, and endemic diseases, as well as the population dynamics of antimicrobial resistance. In addition to research and education, I am actively engaged at the science-policy interface, ensuring that scientific insights contribute to evidence-based decision-making. I currently chair the Expert Group on Animal Diseases in the Netherlands and am a member of EFSA’s Animal Health and Welfare Panel, and the WOAH Scientific Commission for Animal Diseases.
 

Beyond research and policy, I find great fulfillment in mentoring (PhD) students, inspiring them to push boundaries and develop innovative ideas. Teaching in the veterinary curriculum and collaborating with colleagues worldwide continues to be a source of professional and personal inspiration.
 

Let’s connect and collaborate! 🔗