Theo Rispens professor by special appointment at the VU

We are proud to congratulate Theo Rispens with his new position as professor by special appointment of  “Molecular immunology and biotherapeutics” at the Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam as of December 1, 2024. The chair was established on behalf of the Sanquin Foundation.

The chair offers Theo the opportunity to conduct groundbreaking research into the functioning of our immune system, which plays a crucial role in health and disease. "The immune system can be both a problem and a solution," says Theo. "It can react too weakly or too strongly, and in this way plays a key role in various conditions and their treatment."

Solutions from the immune system

Theo emphasizes two important therapies that use the power of our immune system. The best known is vaccination, in which the immune system is trained by exposure to a weakened or harmless form of a pathogen. This enables a faster and more effective response to future infections.

Monoclonal antibodies are another important form of therapy inspired by the immune system. These artificially produced antibodies bind specifically to a target, such as a virus or cancer cell, and neutralize it or make it visible to the immune system. Theo's research focuses on the structure and function of antibodies and the application of monoclonal antibodies as a therapy. "We regularly discover new properties of antibodies," says Theo. "These insights help us to use antibodies more effectively as a medicine and to better understand unwanted immune reactions."

A broader view of immunological research

The chair also offers Theo opportunities to strengthen collaborations and broaden research. "Worldwide, a lot of research is being done into the immune system, often linked to specific diseases such as rheumatoid arthitis, psoriasis or multiple sclerosis," he explains. "But underlying immunological processes are often similar. By approaching research more disease-transcending, we can make great strides forward together."

Theo sees this appointment as an opportunity to further connect immunological research within and outside Sanquin. "I already work closely with colleagues from Sanquin, Reade and other researchers and clinicians in Amsterdam, but this position offers new opportunities to share and develop knowledge and expertise even more broadly." With this chair, Theo Rispens not only strengthens his own research program, but also contributes to the visibility and impact of Sanquin's scientific expertise.

We look forward to the insights he will bring in the coming years and wish him much success in his new role!