Dr. Iwan De Esch

Professor

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Biography

Professor Iwan de Esch is a prominent figure in Drug Design and Synthesis at the Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, serving as the head of the Department of Chemistry & Pharmaceutical Sciences. His career is distinguished by his contributions to the field of Medicinal Chemistry, particularly in the application of Computer-Aided Drug Design (CADD). With a robust foundation in Organic Chemistry from Radboud University Nijmegen followed by a PhD at VU University, he advanced his expertise at the University of Cambridge, focusing on drug design and molecular interactions. He is known for his innovative work in Fragment-Based Drug Design (FBDD), developing efficient approaches to identify and optimize drug candidates targeting GPCRs, kinases, and other molecular targets. His research efforts have been instrumental in establishing several biotech spin-offs and he actively participates in educational programs designed to bridge the gap between science and industry. Notably, he has received prestigious research grants and awards, including the Galenus Research Prize for his work in fragment-based drug discovery. A committed advocate for scientific valorization, Prof. de Esch's contributions extend to enhancing the integration of scientific knowledge in business and innovation sectors, solidifying his role as a leader in both academia and the pharmaceutical industry.

Research Interests

Experience

Professor

2003-01-01 — Present

Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam • Amsterdam

Leading research on drug design and synthesis, focusing on the development of new medicinal compounds.

Founding Scientist

1999-01-01 — Present

De Novo Pharmaceuticals Ltd. •

Co-founded a biotech company specializing in drug discovery.

Founding Scientist

2008-01-01 — Present

IOTA Pharmaceuticals Ltd. •

Co-founded a biotech firm focused on pharmaceutical innovations.

Founding Scientist

2009-01-01 — Present

Griffin Discoveries B.V. •

Established a company aimed at advancing drug development technologies.

Awards

#

Galenus Research Prize

2011-06-27

Courses

Computer-Aided Drug Design Virtual Screening Concepts in Drug Discovery Data Management in Drug Discovery Molecular Modeling for Pharmacochemists

Requirements for Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam

Master Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3
IELTS
Listening
Required:6.5
Reading
Required:6.5
Writing
Required:6.5
Speaking
Required:6.5
Overall
Required:6.5
TOEFL
Listening
Required:22
Reading
Required:24
Writing
Required:24
Speaking
Required:25
Total
Required:100
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree in Psychology or related field 12 ECTS in Research Methods/Statistics 12 ECTS in Clinical Diagnosis/Assessment
Application Checklist
  • Curriculum Vitae
  • Official Transcripts
  • Motivation Letter
  • Proof of English Proficiency
Specialization Notes

Administered under the Department of Clinical Psychology for Master's in Clinical and Developmental Psychopathology.