I was born and raised in Groningen. I have always been fond of exact sciences, which is why I completed my Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees at the UG, specializing in Molecular Biology and pursuing a Master’s track in Science Business and Policy. After my studies, I began working at EV Biotech — a Groningen based start-up — focusing on the development of micro-organisms for industrial biotechnology. I worked there for several years. After a while, I felt the need to do more with my academic background, particularly at the interface of science and business. This led me to Business Generator Groningen.

On behalf of the national Biotech Booster programme, I help researchers create value based on their biotechnological knowledge. The Biotech Booster programme is aimed at supporting early-phase projects that would have difficulty securing funding without Biotech Booster. We assist the researchers with their project applications, and we take on more of a business development role once the projects commence. This includes developing the business case, conducting market analysis, and expanding the network.