The Never Ending Exploration of
the Brain.
I'm a mega brain enthusiast with a PhD in Forensic Neuroscience. Currently, I work as a postdoctoral researcher at Amsterdam UMC, where my research focuses on the neurobiological and behavioural mechanisms underlying self-regulation, stress, aggression, and decision-making in youth at risk and police. Across the GUTS and CONTEXT projects, I study these processes using neuroscience and emerging technologies such as neuroimaging, EEG, virtual reality, and wearable technology.
Beyond my research, I am also the founder of FORNEUROTECH, a network bringing together researchers and professionals working at the intersection of forensic mental health, neuroscience, and emerging technologies.
My never-ending exploration of the brain is a journey guided by six profound passions.
CONTINUE EXPLORING
SIX LAYERS OF EXPLORATION
01 / 06 · NEUROSCIENCE
The exploration never ends.
NEUROSCIENCE
(Forensic) Neuroscience
Oh the brain, what a majestic piece of art. It all started when I was very young and saw "One flew over the cuckoo's nest", to see the neurodiversity for the first time. Later on my fascination guided me towards the criminal brain. To examine how the neural correlates can shape decision-making into making criminal decisions. The crossroads of Neuroscience and the Forensic Field is where it all came together during my PhD. To unravel the neural underpinnings of aggression, emotion regulation and empathy are my main regions of fascination.
DECISION-MAKING
Criminal Decision-making
Since I started this journey as a young puppet, I have studied the brain of forensic samples, using different tools, in different age groups and severity, but all with one aim: understanding criminal decision-making. Previously I worked as a post-doctoral researcher within the Virtual Burglary Project at the Max Planck Institute for Crime, Security, and Law (MPI) and Leiden University, where we used Virtual Reality (VR) to study criminal decision-making in incarcerated burglars. Currently, I work within the Growing up Together in Society (GUTS) team where we investigate the biopsychosocial development of high-risk youth using functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI).
TECHNOLOGY
Innovative Technologies
My fascination with innovative technologies that can improve therapy in forensic care is the common thread throughout my research trajectory. Technologies like virtual reality (VR), neuromodulation, functional Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (fNIRS), Electroencephalography (EEG), Hyperscanning, fMRI and the power of multi-modal approaches fuel my passion. Being able to study brain responses in real-time in virtual environments is the future avenue to unraveling the neural underpinnings of behavior. Recently I initiated the FORNEUROTECH network to bring these fields together.
OPEN SCIENCE
The Future of Decentralized Science
I'm on a mission to help revolutionize open science, to decentralize science (DeSci). Science should be available to everyone, regardless of a university affiliation. To this end, I've launched the Neuroscience NFT project, a collaboration with 3D artist Sytske Nijp and computer scientist Emanuel Boderash. Together, we're merging the digital world with the realms of science — using the brain scans of my own research studies, Sytske created 3D art.
PSYCHEDELICS
Psychedelics in Mental Health Care
I believe in the potential of using psychedelics in treatment, with a big emphasis on safe implementation in Dutch Mental Healthcare. When responsibly implemented, these treatments can be game-changers and keys to a better future. I co-created a report on using ketamine therapy in treatment-resistant depression (TRD) in collaboration with the Open Foundation.
MUSIC
Musical Synergy
Next to all my scientific passions, music is a crucial factor in fueling my motivation and excitement. I combine this by DJ-ing (Ventromedial) and supporting the open-minded event organisation in Amsterdam, Kraft und Licht, with a homebase at Der Hintergarten. I believe dancing is a powerful tool to feel empowered and charged to continue as a devoted researcher.