On Thursday, April 17, 2025, the TechMed Research Day took place at the University of Twente - a full day dedicated to inspiration, innovation, and connection in medical technology. Scientific director at the TechMed Centre, Prof. Dr. Maroeska Rovers, reflected on the event:
The day started with an interactive opening act, where the audience was invited to reflect on how today’s decisions impact the future of medical technology.
Keynote lectures as a source of inspiration
Among the highlights of the day was a keynote session entitled ”From Campus to Career: Insights from UT Alumni in the Field” Kicky van Leeuwen, Wouter Nijhof, and Wieke Haakma shared their inspiring journeys from academia to industry, entrepreneurship, and beyond. They offered valuable insights into bridging the gap between research and real-world impact in healthcare.
Dr Kicky van Leeuwen, founder of Romion Health and the Health AI Register, shared her journey from academic to entrepreneur. She showed how her entrepreneurial spirit and the power of AI drive her mission to transform healthcare. “It’s not so much about whether you want to stay in academia – it’s about the impact you want to make, and which role best fits that goal.”
Wouter Nijhof, PhD and MBA, director Diagnostic Imaging at Siemens Healthineers, shared his journey from Twente to the MedTech industry. With a background in Technical Medicine, he bridges healthcare and innovation, applying academic knowledge in a business context. “Sometimes you don’t have all the answers, but you still have to take the step. Find your vibe - what you truly want to achieve - and trust that you can make an impact, even if it’s not directly with patients.”
Dr Wiebke Haakma, Programme Manager at the Dutch Association of Top Clinical Hospitals (STZ), gave her perspective on career choices following a PhD and the opportunities her work in top clinical care has offered her. “Work takes up a big part of your life, so choose something you truly enjoy - something that gives you energy, makes you happy, and lets you contribute to what you value most.”
Strong presentations during parallel sessions
Throughout the day, several parallel sessions took place, including:
- 6 sessions with Oral presentations (30), in which young researchers shared their research results
- 3 tours with Poster presentations (24), where participants pitched their research, supported by their poster
- An interactive Sandpit session, in which a panel of experts, together with the attendee,s provided valuable feedback that the researchers can use to sharpen their research line or proposal
- Thematic Tables, where various aspects that PhD students and postdocs have to deal with in their research in medical technology were discussed in small groups.
These sessions were filled with energy and engagement, sparking new insights and encouraging collaboration across disciplines.
Awards and recognition for research talent
Researchers participating in the oral and poster sessions were eligible for the TechMed Research Awards. The top three poster presentations and oral presentations were each awarded a TechMed Centre sweater and a voucher for the TechMed Event, where they will present their work again.
Winners – Oral presentations:
- Hein Lucassen (ET-BDDP) | Identification of functional upper extremity phases in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
- Annemarie van der Steen (TNW-M3i/EEMCS) | Differences in pessary support between successful and unsuccessful fit: an analysis in upright position
- Dieuwke van Dartel (EEMCS-BSS) | Physical Activity Levels of Community-Dwelling Older Adults During Daily Life Activities: A Descriptive Study
Winners – Poster presentations:
- Anna Boamfa (TNW-BMPI) | Diffuse optical spectroscopy to study changes in mammary physiology during pregnancy
- Roberto Nese (TNW-AOT, Bioartificial Organs) | Use of glycosaminoglycans to improve the hemocompatibility of dialysis membranes
- Demy Gerritsen (BMS-PHT, MST) | Detection, Differentiation, And Monitoring of Inflammatory Rheumatic Diseases Via Volatile Organic Compound (VOC)-Based Breath Analysis
Ana Martine Costa, who presented the poster ‘Dialysis fluid for additional gas exchange in a device for simultaneous respiratory and renal support: an experimental study’ by Laura Guarino (former student) won the special 'Valorisation Potential Award’. This award was offered by Esther Rodijk of Novel-T, the Knowledge Transfer Office (KTO) of the UT. Ana received a €100 cheque.
Closing with impact and connection
As a token of appreciation, our keynote speakers received a unique TechMed-branded bat house, symbolising the qualities of precision, resilience, and adaptability. Our scientific director, therefore, closed the day by saying that, like a bat navigating the unknown night, young researchers can shape their careers by embracing new opportunities, overcoming challenges, and staying open to different perspectives. The day was closed by a networking reception, where participants continued the conversation, forged new connections, and exchanged ideas in an informal setting.
A successful and inspiring day
The TechMed Research Day 2025 was a great success with more than 200 participants! It highlighted the importance of innovation and collaboration in medical technology and the value of sharing personal experiences and career perspectives. We’re already looking forward to next year!
