Meet our new fellows: innovators shaping the future

At Faculty of Impact, we empower researchers to turn their groundbreaking discoveries into real-world solutions. In May last year, three exceptional scientists from University of Amsterdam, Delft University of Technology and Utrecht University Medical Center, joined our program, each bringing a bold vision for the future. From nanotechnology and drug development to innovative gene therapies, these fellows are working on transformative innovations that could have a lasting impact on society. Through Faculty of Impact, they gain the knowledge, funding, and network they need to bring their innovations to market.

Here’s how they are making an impact:

Olivier Lugier: Advancing nanotechnology for a better future

Olivier is developing a revolutionary method to produce hybrid nanoparticles with applications in sustainable energy and biotechnology. His startup is in the early stages, with a Minimum Viable Product (MVP) already in development. In the next two years, he aims to validate and commercialize these nanoparticles, unlocking their potential for industries that drive societal progress. Olivier is eager to refine his entrepreneurial skills through the Faculty of Impact and contribute his expertise in material chemistry to his fellow entrepreneurs.

Carlos de Lannoy: Accelerating drug development with innovative protein analysis

Carlos is on a mission to revolutionize protein-based therapeutics. His team has discovered a new way to analyze individual protein molecules under a microscope—an advancement that could significantly speed up the development of life-saving drugs for diseases like cancer and Parkinson’s. Currently, their technology operates on an expert-level microscope, but within two years, they aim to develop a benchtop analyzer that will make this method accessible to researchers worldwide. Carlos is excited to gain the commercial insights needed to bring this breakthrough to market while supporting his peers with his creative problem-solving skills.

Nazma Ilahibaks: Transforming gene therapy for heart disease

Nazma and her team at UMC Utrecht are pioneering a natural cell-derived delivery system to improve gene therapies for heart disease. With their research at Technology Readiness Level 3, they have successfully demonstrated the concept in a lab setting. Over the next two years, their focus is on advancing the therapy to preclinical models—a crucial step toward clinical trials and regulatory approval. Nazma sees the Faculty of Impact as the ideal program to accelerate this transition from lab discovery to patient-ready solutions. With her experience in business development and tech transfer, she is also committed to helping her fellow entrepreneurs navigate the commercialization journey.

These three fellows exemplify the spirit of innovation and impact that defines the Faculty of Impact. We’re thrilled to support their journeys as they turn scientific breakthroughs into tangible solutions for society. Stay tuned for their progress—because the future of science-driven entrepreneurship starts here!