Karine Van Doninck is an evolutionary biologist, inspired by science and art but also by urban development, dedicated to push the frontiers of knowledge, while exploring and blurring the boundaries between disciplines. As a full professor in biology at Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Van Doninck combines twin passions of research and education. In 2020, she founded the research unit of Molecular Biology and Evolution at ULB. Central to her research are micro-organisms with unique characteristics, more specifically bdelloid rotifers. For her research, she received from the European Research Council a ERC Consolidator grant in 2017 and a ESA project to further develop her research with rotifiers. Two experiments have already been launched by SpaceX to the ISS. Besides her dedication to scientific research and education, Karine Van Doninck explores the interplay between art & science. By inviting artists in her laboratory, her scientific results transcend the academic journals, creating new categories of thought. This goes beyond the University, as Karine Van Doninck also invites artists in her private urban project DRUUM. Striving for a more sustainable future, Karine Van Doninck is co-founder of e-biom and chairs the board of DUSS (Developing Urban Sustainable Society) and P.A.R.T.S. (Performing Arts Research and Training Studios).
