About

About

Overview

Founded in 1995 and operational since 1996, the Vlaams Instituut voor Biotechnologie (VIB) in Flanders, Belgium, stands as a testament to the Flemish government's commitment to advancing life sciences research. As a prominent member of EU-LIFE, VIB is dedicated to fostering excellence in the field of life sciences and leveraging research outcomes for economic growth.

Funding and Allocation

VIB allocates a significant portion of its budget (nearly 80%) to research activities. A notable 12% is dedicated to technology transfer, aiming to convert research into viable business ventures. Additionally, around 2% of the budget is directed towards socio-economic initiatives, highlighting VIB's comprehensive approach to scientific advancement.

Leadership

Guided by the experienced leadership of Christine Durinx and Jérôme Van Biervliet, with Ajit Shetty steering the board of directors, VIB (Vlaams Instituut voor Biotechnologie) upholds a vision that intertwines scientific innovation with societal progress. This trio of leaders brings a diverse range of expertise and a shared commitment to driving forward the frontiers of life sciences research, ensuring that VIB not only excels in scientific discovery but also contributes meaningfully to societal well-being and economic development.

Mission and Strategic Goals

VIB's mission encapsulates conducting groundbreaking biomolecular research for scientific and societal enrichment. Its strategic objectives include:

  • Pioneering in strategic basic research.
  • Implementing a robust technology transfer policy for consumer and patient benefit.
  • Disseminating scientific knowledge to the general public.

Research Centers and Approach

VIB's research is centered around understanding both normal and pathological cellular and organismal processes. This research spans humans, plants, and microorganisms. Unique to VIB's approach, researchers are integrated into existing departments across six Flemish universities (Ghent University, KU Leuven, University of Antwerp, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, IMEC, and Hasselt University), fostering collaboration and innovation.

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Management and Structure

Management & Structure

VIB is an entrepreneurial non-profit research institute, with a clear focus on groundbreaking strategic basic research in life sciences and operates in close partnership with the five universities in Flanders – Ghent University, KU Leuven, University of Antwerp, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, and Hasselt University.
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EU-life

EU-LIFE

VIB is one of the founding members of EU-LIFE, an alliance of leading European life sciences research institutes, which contributes to the improvement of research by influencing European science policies and by developing, implementing and disseminating best practices in the organization and management of research institutes.
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