Get to know Maxime Smits
Meet Maxime, our communication Advisor for the ERIS team. She coordinates all communication and admin within the ERIS team. For the past 2 years, she worked for the communication team at VUB TechTransfer and in September she embarked on a new communication adventure within the ERIS team.
What is your role at VUB TechTransfer?
I’m the Communication Advisor for the ERIS team at VUB TechTransfer.
What are your main responsibilities in this role?
I make sure European innovative research at VUB resonates, whether it’s through social media, newsletters, or events. It’s a dynamic role where I get to showcase incredible European innovations. My day-to-day involves organizing events, keeping our ERIS and IMPACT programme’s social media up to date, writing monthly newsletters, and ensuring our VUB European-approved projects get the spotlight they deserve!
How long have you been with VUB TechTransfer?
I’ve been part of the TechTransfer communication team for the past two years, and starting in September 2024, I’ve taken on the exciting role of Communication Advisor within the ERIS team.
How have you seen VUB TechTransfer evolve in recent years and how do you look back on it?
I can tell you it’s a dynamic team with an agile spirit and not afraid to self-reflect. I think this is an important quality and condition for growth and to be future-proof. You can compare TechTransfer to a living organism which is always evolving, adapting and growing! Can you tell I like science communication?
What is the project you are most proud of at VUB TechTransfer?
That would have to be the Flanders Technology and Innovation (FTI) Festival in Brussels. It was a true team effort with my colleagues Alena Aga and Suzy Renckens. The festival highlighted just how much VUB contributes to innovative research in Flanders. Flanders may be small on the European map, but it’s definitely a powerhouse of innovation, and being part of something that showcases that was truly eye-opening.
What is an ideal day off for you?
I like to start the day with a brunch, the best of both worlds combined! Afterwards, I like to go for a long hike in nature, close to home or far away, preferably in the mountains. After a long hike, I like to conclude the day with a nice 'portie gemengd' (mixture of cheese and salami) and a special beer.
Last but not least, we have to know, what is your favourite invention of all time?
Hands down, the air fryer! It’s a total game-changer in the kitchen. You can toss almost anything in there and it comes out crispy and delicious. What more do you need?
