Research and education hand in hand
Geijsen’s department combines fundamental research with education, with a strong focus on stem cell research and gene therapy. “On the one hand, we conduct research into how stem cells and gene editing can be used to develop new therapies. On the other hand, we provide education that is increasingly shifting towards the latest developments in this field,” he explains.
According to Geijsen, there is a clear gap between the knowledge professionals acquire during their studies and the skills required in the labour market. “That is why we started developing educational programmes that can partly be shared as open-source resources. This allows educators and professionals throughout the Netherlands and even beyond to benefit from them.”
Collaboration and partners
The project is being carried out in close collaboration with Avans University of Applied Sciences in Breda and Utrecht University of Applied Sciences. “I am the lead applicant and coordinate the overall project, but the work is truly collaborative. The educational programme will be modular in structure, allowing participants to either follow individual modules or complete a full learning pathway,” says Geijsen.
The modules are being developed in English, although practical sessions may also be offered in Dutch, depending on the target audience. In addition to online learning modules, which include elements such as gamification, the programme will also offer workshops and team-based learning activities.
The project also involves intensive interaction with industry partners at locations such as the Leiden Bio Science Park and in Utrecht. “We consult companies when developing the modules. For example, we collaborate with the Biotech Training Facility, which specialises in cleanroom training courses — something universities of applied sciences cannot provide themselves,” Geijsen explains.
Target groups and impact
The project targets professionals with a higher professional education (HBO) or academic background who are active within the pharmaceutical value chain, including researchers and laboratory technicians in academia and applied sciences, employees in the pharmaceutical and biotech industries, and clinicians and analysts in healthcare. These are mainly professionals in need of upskilling or reskilling, for example due to a job change or career transition. In addition, educators and researchers may use some of the modules more broadly within their own educational institutions.
Geijsen emphasises the importance of the project: “There is a huge shortage of well-trained personnel, both in terms of numbers and level of expertise. Despite a recent investment slowdown in the biotech sector, the demand for qualified professionals continues to grow. With Bridging the Gap, we ensure that current and future employees across these sectors can continue to meet the high standards required in the field.”
Success factors and future outlook
The project’s success will be evaluated over the next five years based on several criteria. “The project will be successful if it is still running and able to sustain itself after the subsidy period ends. It is also important that the modules are actively used and contribute to the training of a significant group of professionals,” says Geijsen.
The role of PharmaNL in enabling this initiative is crucial. “The funding allows us to develop and implement these educational modules. Without that support, this project would never have gotten off the ground,” Geijsen explains.
Finally, he shares a tip for future applicants seeking funding through PharmaNL: “Make sure someone on your team has experience with grant applications and have your proposal thoroughly reviewed. Also take a close look at previously funded projects, so your proposal clearly complements existing initiatives.”
More information
Photo: Top f.l.t.r. Raymond Pieters, Niels Geijsen, Martie Verschuren. Bottom: Jon-Ruben van Rhijn, Margaretha Kaijen-Lambers – Avans Hogeschool, Clara Martinez Mir
News May 28, 2026 