I am the main investigator of the neurogenetics group of the Department of Genetics of the UMCG and our research centers on functional neurogenetics, with a focus on rare movement disorders (since 2008). Our work aims to understand the genetic, molecular and cellular mechanisms that underlie rare movement disorders using state-of-the-art technologies including various gene-editing techniques including prime-editing, long-read sequencing and iPSC disease modelling. I am also a member of the Movement Disorders Groningen expertise center (Movement Disorders Groningen).

I am appointed professor of scientific research in medical education with effect from 1the of August 2024. The field of scientific research in medical education focuses on incorporating biomedical research and scientific methodology into the curriculum of higher education institutions. This involves developing programs and courses that prepare students to understand, conduct, and contribute to biomedical research. The field also aims to promote interdisciplinary collaboration between students and faculty in biology, biomedical science, medicine, nursing, pharmacy, and other relevant disciplines. The ultimate goal is to educate students as evidence-based professionals who are capable of contributing to groundbreaking biomedical research and improving healthcare. This research is embedded in the de LEARN program ‘Lifeling Leaerning, Education and Assessment Research Network (LEARN - Lifelong Learning, Education and Assessment Research Network)

Within the Faculty of Medical Sciences, I am currently the adjunct program director of medicine (bachelor and master). Additionally, I am a member of the advisory committee for the JSM/MD-PhD/Mandema programs of the UMCG. I successfully obtained my Senior Teaching Qualification in 2023. I have been coordinator of various education modules within the Master Biomedical Sciences and Molecular Medicine Innovative Treatment program. I was the program director of MSc Biomedical Sciences of the Faculty of Science & Engineering for several years and participated in a number of steering committees to improve current education.