Get to know Philippe Westbroek
Get to know Philippe Westbroek, an established presence at VUB TechTransfer with nearly 10 years of experience. Over the years, he has witnessed the evolution of our department, seeing it grow from a new independent office at VUB, to an established and succesful entity.
What is your role at VUB TechTransfer?
My role is to support VUB researchers in their applications for European funding: from idea to submission, including the co-development of these proposals. I initiated this new approach in 2015, but today we are a team of six people. My role in the team evolved from fully operational to pure coordination.
What are your main responsibilities in this role?
I have the coordination over the ERIS-team, so I am directly responsible for the well-being of five colleagues, motivating the team in supporting the researchers applying for European funding, and ensuring the implementation of the i-ISO concept.
How long have you been with VUB TechTransfer?
Almost 9 years already. Before VUB, I was a researcher at Ghent University for 22 years.
How have you seen TechTransfer evolve in recent years and how do you look back on it?
TechTransfer has grown year by year, took up more roles and tasks, and transitioned from a new independent office at VUB to an established and successful entity.
What is the project you are most proud of at TechTransfer?
The MSCA-COFUND IMPACT project. I developed it from scratch. It is a research programme that brings 20 postdoc researchers from outside Belgium to VUB for a two-year research grant, including a fully developed training programme. The total budget of this project is 3 million euros.
What is an ideal day off for you?
Haha. Nice weather, 30°C, a terrace, some beers and watching people.
Last but not least, we have to know, what is your favourite invention of all time?
Airplanes!