Pioneering Perspectives:Innovation and Technology in Early-Stage Clinical Drug Research

Geert Jan Groeneveld is the CEO of CHDR and a professor of Clinical Neuropharmacology at Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC), where he also practices as a neurologist in the pain outpatient clinic. He trained as a neurologist at UMC Utrecht, obtaining his PhD on pharmacotherapeutic strategies for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. From 2007 to 2009, he worked at Genzyme on gene therapy programs for Parkinson’s disease. Groeneveld was Research Director at CHDR from 2009 to 2017, focusing on neurology and pain. He has published over 100 articles and is involved in training PhD students, also serving on several editorial boards.

Ciska Heida is an Associate Professor in the Biomedical Signals & Systems group. Her research focuses on understanding the central mechanisms of motor control, the pathophysiology behind movement disorders, and the use of neuromodulation techniques to restore motor functions. Key topics include the optimization of deep brain stimulation (DBS) and development of cueing techniques for people with Parkinson’s disease.

Kaye de Cuba is a Clinical Scientist and Research Physician at the Centre of Human Drug Research, where she is advancing the field of neurophysiological biomarkers to improve early drug trials. As part of her PhD on Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, she investigates novel ways to profile drugs targeting cortical excitability. By making biomarkers an integral part of early-stage research, she aims to cut costs, reduce development timelines, and, most importantly, ensure that new, effective treat

Bryan Wermelink is a dedicated researcher at the University of Twente, collaborating closely with Medisch Spectrum Twente (MST) in advancing healthcare innovation. His work focuses on exploring and implementing cutting-edge medical technologies and practices to improve patient outcomes and streamline hospital operations. With a keen interest in the intersection of clinical care and technology, Bryan aims to bridge the gap between theoretical research and practical healthcare applications. His contributions are integral to various projects at both the University of Twente and MST, where his analytical skills and commitment to scientific progress have helped shape several impactful healthcare initiatives.

Michel van Putten studied Medicine in Leiden and Applied Physics in Delft. In 2000, he received his PhD in Applied Physics from Delft University of Technology and became registered as a neurologist in the same year. After working for a few years at the department of Neurology at the HagaZiekenhuis in The Hague, van Putten decided to move to Enschede in 2004. From that time he has been heading the department of Clinical Neurophysiology of Medisch Spectrum Twente, a large teaching hospital and joined the Institute of Technical Medicine at the University of Twente. In December 2008 he was appointed professor of Clinical Neurophysiology.

Eva Thijssen is a researcher at the Centre for Human Drug Research (CHDR), known for her contributions to drug development and clinical research. With a strong background in pharmacology, she focuses on the safety and efficacy of new therapeutic agents through innovative clinical trials. At CHDR, Eva collaborates with multidisciplinary teams to design studies that enhance understanding of drug actions. She has published numerous articles in peer-reviewed journals, contributing valuable insights to the scientific community.  In addition to her research, Eva mentors emerging scientists, fostering collaboration and knowledge-sharing. Her work reflects a commitment to advancing healthcare through rigorous research and innovation.