Interview with Dr. Verhaagen

Dr Joost Verhaagen heads the laboratory for neuroregeneration at the Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience in Amsterdam and is a strategic professor at the Vrije Univesiteit Amsterdam.

He supervises a group of nine post-doc researchers, PhD students and technicians that work on solutions focusing on degeneration and regeneration of the adult nervous systems. We asked Dr Verhaagen about his motivation for his work and support from Spinal Research.

How long have you been working with Spinal Research?

I believe I first got in touch with Spinal Research in 2004. We then obtained a first grant from them in 2005. What led you to a career in neuroscience? My interest from young age in biology/nature, which later evolved in an interest in the brain, and nervous system injury and repair. I also always felt attracted to lab work, in particular, molecular biology.

What motivates you in your work?

First of all, the science/scientific discovery. Secondly, and related to that, experiencing that we are continually making small steps forward in our understanding of the problem of nerve regeneration. Thirdly, developing and advancing new technology, and to bring that technology closer to the clinic e.g. as I see happening with gene therapy. To have a feeling that you contribute to this is great. And, last but not least, the human aspect of science, working in a group and working with colleagues e.g. in other labs. The latest example being the collaboration with Professor Liz Bradbury at King’s College London to get an important piece of research done.

Why do you think collaboration is so important in medical research?

Because science has become so complex that you need people with different viewpoints and with access to different technologies working together.

How has Spinal Research benefitted you and your research? 

Not only through grants, but through their network of scientists, and by facilitating collaborations. Their Network Meeting is a highlight of the year.