Get to know Tuur Roels
Meet Tuur, our dedicated Knowledge Valorization Officer. He is your ultimate resource for all things Eutopia within VUB TechTransfer, taking the lead on matters concerning Innovation, Entrepreneurship, and Digitalization within the Eutopia initiative. Eutopia stands as our European University Alliance, of which VUB is proudly an integral part. Discover more about our team as Tuur shares his journey with us today!
What is your role at VUB TechTransfer?
My official title is Knowledge Valorisation Officer, but I'm the go-to person within the TechTransfer department for anything related to Eutopia.
What are your main responsibilities in this role?
As the Eutopia Project Manager, I oversee all matters related to Innovation, Entrepreneurship, and Digitalization within the Eutopia initiative. Eutopia is our European University Alliance, and VUB is proudly a part of it.
How long have you been with VUB TechTransfer?
Since September 2021.
How have you seen TechTransfer evolve in recent years and how do you look back on it?
Considering that I've only been working here for two years, I can't draw conclusions about a long period just yet. However, due to my role in Eutopia, I have the opportunity to connect with colleagues from ten other European TechTransfer offices. It becomes evident what a remarkable track record our TechTransfer team has and the historical phases it has gone through to reach this point. Our TechTransfer office is experiencing growth and continues to expand. The challenge now lies in both digitalization and establishing a robust management structure with standardized procedures, while still allowing room for the unique approaches of all teams and the diverse challenges we tackle here.
What is the project you are most proud of at TechTransfer?
In January 2024, the Eutopia Health project kicks off, and I'll be taking on the role of project manager for VUB. Our TechTransfer team will play a pivotal leadership role in training Eutopia widening partners.
What is an ideal day off for you?
An ideal day off would be a phone-free day filled with plenty of sunshine. Ideally, it would start with a surf session or some other outdoor sports activity, and end with a relaxing meal and quality time spent with my partner, friends, or family.
Last but not least, we have to know, what is your favourite invention of all time?
Humor will be my all-time favorite human invention as it's the ultimate life upgrade – turning everyday moments into a comedy show, defusing tension with a punchline, and giving us the superpower to spread joy, one laugh at a time.