Practical
Monday, 19 October, 2026
- 10:00 until 19:00
TheMerode
Poelaertplein 6
1000 Brussel
Poelaertplein 6
1000 Brussel
Tickets available soon
Registration until
From AI-driven diagnostics to robotic prosthetics and soft robotics: this business track brings together the pioneers who are reinventing healthcare. The morning program features keynotes, pitches, and expert panels that push the boundaries between science, innovation, and application. You’ll also enjoy a lunch and networking session: the perfect opportunity to forge your next partnership or develop a big idea. In the afternoon, Vrije Universiteit Brussel invites you for a unique behind-the-scenes tour of scientific laboratories and innovators.
Business track
Keynotes
Prof. Jan Steyaert (VUB, Structural Biology Brussels) and Erik Janssen (VP Innovation Digital Health, UCB) will open the event with their vision of where the sector is headed.
Pitches & panels
Hear pitches from pioneers such as Pierre Cherelle (Axiles Bionics) on next-generation prosthetics, prof. Bram Vanderborght (VUB, BruBotics) on human-robot collaboration, prof. An Jacobs (VUB & FARI) on data ethics, Seppe Terryn (VUB/Imec) on soft robotics and self-healing materials, and Ségolène Martin (Kantify) on AI for health predictions.
Additionally, sessions are scheduled by Sofie Bekaert (KBS-FRB) and Koen Kas (Healthskouts) on AI in healthcare and human-centered low-tech innovation, a fireside chat with Vincent Keulman (Andaman7), and an expert panel with Elena Bonfiglioli (Microsoft), Sebastiaan Engelborghs, and Guy Nagels on neuroscience and AI.
Fast tracks: a unique behind-the-scenes at VUB-innovators
Brussels and the Rand region boast a rich ecosystem of innovative organizations. The Vrije Universiteit Brussel is one of them. To truly experience this diversity, we’re bringing innovation directly to you through fast tracks: inspiring visits to laboratories dedicated to scientific innovation.
In the Health & Human business track, you can choose from 3 fast tracks at the Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) taking place from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM. We provide a shuttle service from TheMerode to the Vrije Universiteit Brussel campus.
Scroll down to discover the fast tracks.
Programme
- 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM: Business track @ TheMerode
- 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM: Lunch @ TheMerode
- 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM: Fast track @ Vrije Universiteit Brussel
Tickets
Each ticket for the business track includes one fast track.
Discover the fast tracks at the Vrije Universiteit Brussel
Fast track: Biotechnology is life
During this engaging fast-track program, you’ll discover how immunotherapy and nanotechnology are shaping the future of medicine. You’ll gain a unique insight into how basic research and technological innovation work together to provide better, more personalized care for patients.
Fast track: From beer to biotech
Innovation you can taste and discover: during this fast track, you’ll get an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at a cleanroom, a pilot bakery/chocolaterie/brewery, and a state-of-the-art chemistry lab. We offer you an inspiring glimpse into research ranging from fundamental science to tangible applications, with an impact on health and nutrition.
READ MORE
Fast track: Smart health - HealthTech that prevents and heals
During this inspiring fast-track program, you’ll discover how smart innovations in robotics, materials, AI, and health tech are improving health—both through preventive measures in the workplace and in healthcare. You’ll gain a unique insight into how interdisciplinary research leads to smart, impactful applications in the healthcare of tomorrow.
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Looking for expertise, technology or research partners?
Innovate with VUB!
With the development of technological applications across a wide range of societal domains, Vrije Universiteit Brussel is pioneering innovation in the heart of Europe.
VUB brings together researchers, entrepreneurs and organisations. From licensing opportunities and spin-offs to collaborative research projects, our TechTransfer team helps innovative ideas grow and create impact.
Do you work for a company or non-profit organisation looking to translate cutting-edge research into real-world solutions? Get in touch with VUB TechTransfer to explore opportunities for collaboration between academia, industry and society.
The world needs you
This initiative is part of VUB's public programme, a programme for everyone who believes that scientific knowledge, critical thinking and dialogue are an important first step to create impact in the world.
As an Urban Engaged University, VUB aims to be a driver of change in the world. With our academic edcuational programmes and innovative research, we contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations and to making a difference locally and globally.
