​Fergus O’Leary Simpson is a promising postdoctoral researcher at the Institute of Development Policy (IOB). He specialises in the political ecology of nature conservation in conflict zones. His research focuses on the complex relationship between armed conflict, environmental protection, and the rights of Indigenous peoples — with a particular focus on the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). In this field, he ranks among the international top researchers.

​Sara Op de Beeck is senior FWO postdoctoral researcher at the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences and a key figure in UAntwerp’s forward-looking sleep research. Her work, which has gained international recognition, applies her expertise in biomedical engineering and statistical modelling to the field of obstructive sleep apnoea (OSAS).

​Sarah Ahannach is a postdoctoral researcher at the Laboratory for Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology. She is the driving force behind Isala – the largest citizen science project on the vaginal microbiome in the world. The Isala project grew into an international platform for innovative and inclusive research into women's health. Thanks to her efforts, significant progress was made in this field of research.

​Georgios Pipintakos is a FWO postdoctoral researcher within the Sustainable Pavements and Asphalt Research at the Faculty of Applied Engineering. At UAntwerp — and internationally — he established a new research line in the field of bitumen chemomechanics. His current project examines the oxidative mechanisms of polymer-modified bitumen in combination with the polymer deterioration over time. His work has led to the development of new, innovative testing methods and laboratory techniques.

​Laure Jacquemin is a clinical audiologist and post-doc researcher at the Tinnitus Treatment and Research Center Antwerp (UZA) and a visiting professor at UAntwerp. She is a leading voice in science communication on hearing, tinnitus and environmental noise, with a remarkable ability to present these complex topics in a clear and accessible way to a broad audience. She has launched numerous initiatives to raise awareness about hearing damage. Internationally, she shares her expertise through the Tinnitus Research Initiative Academy.

Under the leadership of prof. Stefaan Walgrave, a team of researchers from political science, communication science and data analysis joined forces to develop the Jongerenstemtest. The goal was to help young people and first-time voters navigate the political landscape in an accessible and user-friendly way in the run-up to the June 2024 elections. The result was a scientifically grounded and easy-to-use tool that not only increased political knowledge, but also boosted political self-confidence and voting motivation — especially among young people from vulnerable groups. The Jongerenstemtest stands as a powerful example of how academic research can lead to tangible social impact.

​Sam Van der Jeught is a tenure track lecturer at the Faculty of Applied Engineering and a role model for young academics who place education at the heart of their work. He focuses on student-centred and competency-based learning and has launched several innovative teaching initiatives. After just two years, his dedication was recognised by students with the “Gobelijntje” award for Best Professor.