EUTOPIA Researchers Shine in ERC Starting Grants 2025
from September 1, 2025 to September 30, 2025
Published on August 29, 2025– Updated on September 1, 2025
VUB Rector Jan Danckaert Elected Chair of EUTOPIA’s Board
Jan Danckaert, Rector of Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), is the new Chair of EUTOPIA’s Board of Presidents. His appointment marks an important step for both VUB and the alliance, underlining his strong commitment to European cooperation in higher education.
Rector since 2022, Danckaert has made EUTOPIA a central priority. He views the network as essential in a time of geopolitical uncertainty and fast-changing student needs. His recent collaboration with outgoing Chair Tiziana Lippiello at major European events highlights his active role in shaping the alliance’s future.
A physicist with expertise in nonlinear optics and blended learning, Danckaert brings deep academic and managerial experience. He previously served as VUB’s Vice-Rector for Education and Student Affairs.
At VUB’s 2023 academic opening in the European Parliament, he called for a “new Renaissance” in European universities, based on curiosity, openness and connectedness—core values of EUTOPIA. He also champions multilingualism and science diplomacy to build stronger, more inclusive academic communities.
As Chair, Danckaert will focus on academic freedom, sustainability, inclusion, civic engagement and effective governance. Strengthening partnerships will be another key priority, as higher education faces shifting funding models and evolving expectations.
With VUB located in Brussels, at the heart of the EU, Danckaert is ideally placed to expand collaboration with European institutions and to boost EUTOPIA’s role.
