Who we are
The Symphony of Us team will explore gaps and opportunities to improve the value that the cancer research ecosystem brings to patients and their loved ones, by joining forces with different actors involved in cancer research that strive for a change in cancer research culture.
Guided by enthusiastic researchers
The heart of The Symphony of Us is a strong team of academic researchers from different fields. Over the next two years, they will work together transdisciplinary while keeping the current social context in mind.
Teodora Lalova-Spinks
Ghent University
“I love challenges and am interested in less common approaches in science where you step outside your comfort zone… that’s what transdisciplinary is all about.”
A lawyer by training, Teodora holds an interdisciplinary PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences and Laws (2023 KU Leuven, supported with an FWO PhD scholarship). Her research has previously focused on the legal framework for healthcare research, data protection, and patient empowerment.
Nadine Boesten
Ghent University
“You’re still a patient even when not seeing the doctor. It impacts your entire life, but our society often doesn’t have any idea."
Nadine Boesten holds a master’s degree in Health Policy, Innovation and Management. Her research focuses on patient-centred and multidisciplinary collaboration in health care.
Silke Léonard
AP Antwerp
"The project’s ambition to focus on the individual and really listen to the patient intrigues me."
Silke has a solid background in nursing where she strives to improve the overall well-being of people with cancer.
Florence Horicks
Université Libre de Bruxelles
"Patients have a voice and they deserve to be heard."
Florence Horicks researches the quality of life and survival of cancer patients and patient engagement for the Pôle Santé (ULB) organisation.
Want to be part of this harmonious symphony?
Join us… so that we can achieve much more together.
An initative of the King Baudouin Foundation
The mission of the King Baudouin Foundation is to contribute to building a better society in Belgium, Europe, and elsewhere in the world. The Foundation is an actor for change and innovation, serving the public interest and increasing social cohesion. We endeavor to maximize our impact through capacity building among organizations and people who contribute to building a better society.