Good news for the future of animal-free science: the three nominees for the 2026 Hugo van Poelgeest Prize have been announced! With this biennial prize, we shine a spotlight on young researchers who demonstrate that groundbreaking science is possible without animal testing. They prove that human-centred innovations are not only better for animals, but also for science.
Interest in the prize was greater than ever this year: we received no fewer than 21 nominations. This left the jury with a difficult choice. Jury member Merel Ritskes put it aptly: “I was very impressed by all the proposals that came in – brilliant!! In fact, all these people should win a prize!”
From all the entries, an independent scientific jury selected three promising researchers. Their research contributes to the transition towards animal-free science and demonstrates that the next generation of scientists is opting for innovation, collaboration and human-centred research methods.
Meet the nominees
Job Berkhout
Job Berkhout (Center for Neurogenomics and Cognitive Research, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam)
Job Berkhout is working on an animal-free method to predict which substances may be harmful to the early development of the unborn child. This is an extremely vulnerable process: exposure to harmful substances can lead to serious birth defects, such as spina bifida.
In his research, Job combines artificial intelligence with a dynamic computer model based on experimental biological data. First, he identifies high-risk chemicals using AI. The computer model then simulates how these substances might disrupt the development of the nervous system. In this way, he lays the foundations for a ‘virtual embryo’: a promising approach that could help to better protect people and the environment, without the need for animal testing.
“Innovation without animal testing is not only an ethical duty, but also a scientific necessity: with advanced virtual models, we can ultimately protect people and the environment far more effectively than we ever could with animal testing.”
Jesse Weidema
Jesse Weidema (Leiden University Medical Center)
Jesse Weidema investigates the ethical and philosophical aspects of animal-free methods, such as organ-on-chip and organoids. In doing so, he focuses primarily on the question of under what conditions these methods can truly replace animal testing.
His work shows that the transition to human-centred models is not just about new technology. It is also about how we understand, design, evaluate and compare animal testing and animal-free methods. By bringing these conceptual, ethical and policy-related questions into sharp focus, Jesse is helping to facilitate a responsible transition to human-centred research practices.
“What appeals to me about animal-free innovation is that it addresses both the use of animals in research and the question of how medical knowledge can better reflect the diversity of patients and diseases as we encounter them in clinical practice. In doing so, this transition contributes to knowledge that is more relevant to humans and a world in which science and healthcare treat animals more fairly. For me, this is a huge source of motivation in the work I do today.”
Elise Heesbeen
Elise Heesbeen (Utrecht Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences)
Elise Heesbeen is investigating how the immune system may influence the development of anxiety disorders. At present, we still know relatively little about this, whilst greater understanding could help identify new treatment options for people who do not respond well to current treatments.
In her research, Elise uses three animal-free research methods. These have provided her with new insights into the development, potential prevention and treatment of anxiety disorders. Her work demonstrates that there are several ways to conduct complex research without the unnecessary use of laboratory animals.
“Through my research, I provide various examples of alternative research approaches to reduce the unnecessary use of laboratory animals and contribute to the transition towards responsible and sustainable research.”
More than just an award
The Hugo van Poelgeest Award is a scientific prize recognizing excellence in animal-free research within the life sciences. Previously, the award was presented every four years by the Bouwstenen voor Dierenwelzijn Foundation. Since 2019, we have been involved in organizing the award, and it is now presented every two years. Our focus is on inspiring the next generation of scientists to continue working with animal-free research models.
The winner will receive the Hugo van Poelgeest Award along with a €5,000 cash prize. In addition, there is a People’s Choice Award worth €1,500.
To introduce as many people as possible to their research, all three nominees will work with us to produce a professional video explaining their innovation. These videos will be used during both the jury evaluation and the public voting process. Starting in September, you’ll have the opportunity to help decide who you believe is the researcher of the future. In November 2026 the winners will be announced during a festive event.
Timeline
The future is animal-free
The Hugo van Poelgeest Award shows that the future of science has already begun. Every nominee demonstrates that research does not have to rely on animal testing, but can instead be driven by smart, human-centered innovations that deliver better outcomes for both patients and animals.
By giving these researchers a platform, we hope to inspire many more young scientists to make the same choice.
In the coming weeks, we’ll introduce each of the three nominees in more detail, and you’ll be able to vote for your favourite in the People’s Choice Award. So keep an eye on our channels!
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You’ll find this and many other success stories in the Animal Free Gallery on LinkedIn. This platform is your place to share animal-free breakthroughs, exchange knowledge, and connect with like-minded professionals and scientists.
Together, we can accelerate innovation without animal testing. Join us and celebrate every step towards ethical, human-relevant research!
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