Get to know Suzy Renckens
Introducing Suzy, our dedicated Innovation Manager at TechTransfer. She serves as your go-to expert for ventures within the realm of health tech, biotech, and applied biomedical sciences. Suzy maintains a strong rapport with the innovation managers at UZ Brussel. Additionally, she adds a cherry on top of the cake by being an esteemed member of the Medical Device Framework Board of UZB-VUB, which supports researchers and medical doctors that contribute to the development of innovative medical devices. To get to know our team better, Suzy is sharing her story today!
What is your role at VUB TechTransfer?
I'm Innovation Manager at VUB TechTransfer.
What are your main responsibilities in this role?
I support initiatives in the field of health tech, biotech and applied biomedical sciences and maintain a close connection with the innovation managers of UZ Brussel. I am also a member of the Medical Device Framework Board, a joint UZB-VUB initiative to support researchers and medical doctors that are contributing to the development of innovative medical devices that fall under strict EU regulation. I also engage with Green Energy Park (GEP) which will host future innovation and demonstration projects of higher TRL (technology readiness level) at the Research Park in Zellik.
How long have you been with VUB TechTransfer?
I joined the VUB in mid-September 2020, during the ‘heat’ of the corona crisis. It took a long time before I met all my colleagues face-to-face …
How have you seen TechTransfer evolve in recent years and how do you look back on it?
I notice the versatility of the team and the tasks, including quite some ad hoc initiatives, that are being entrusted to Tech Transfer. The breadth of initiatives that Tech Transfer is supporting is impressive. So is the expertise and enthusiasm of the people involved.
What is the project you are most proud of at TechTransfer?
I'm taking this opportunity to share news about an ongoing initiative supported by VUB, known as the Flanders Technology & Innovation Festival. In June 2023, the ‘FTI Express’ train embarked on a journey from Ghent to Antwerp, carrying Flemish Ministers, CEOs, and entrepreneurs on board. I'm pleased to inform you that, thanks to the action from our vice-rectors overseeing Research and Innovation, VUB will now be participating in the Flanders Technology & Innovation Festival week scheduled for 15-23 March 2024. We are actively collecting proposals to showcase our Alma Mater's contributions during the event and make our mark!
What is an ideal day off for you?
In the morning, go for a run in the Sonian Forest with my running mates of the ZA-Team and have drink afterwards, why not a Karmeliet? Spend the afternoon with family, playing Kubb and pétanque or so. Apero time with a nice Aperol Spritz followed by a lovely dinner prepared on the Ofyr bbq. Conclude the evening salsa dancing. When I have multiple days off I chose for adventurous travel, somewhere on the globe.
Last but not least, we have to know, what is your favourite invention of all time?
Without a doubt the iPhone. It is amazing how this constantly evolving high-tech device has changed our lives by integrating so many innovative technologies into one little apparatus that fits in your pocket. You can almost do anything with that device. Be in contact with family, friends and business connections. Share pictures and movies. Use it as GPS, for payments, to collect sports results, fall asleep with a nice podcast. Just name it. And we feel lost without…