News
Lygature Board of Directors welcomes new members, appoints new Chair & renews governance vision
We are pleased to announce several updates to our Board of Directors (BoD), reinforcing the Lygature Foundation’s continued commitment to strong governance and strategic guidance in advancing public-private collaboration in life sciences and health.
New leadership and fresh perspectives
Michel Rudolphie has been appointed as the new Chair of the Board. With extensive leadership experience and a passion for medical innovation, Michel brings to this role a wealth of expertise. He is joined by two new members:
- Wiro Niessen, a renowned scientist and innovator in biomedical imaging and AI, currently Dean of the Faculty of Medical Sciences at the University of Groningen. Wiro also serves as the Top Team Life Sciences & Health’s Captain of Science. His academic insight and focus on technological innovation will be a strong asset to the Board.
“I look forward to contributing to Lygature’s mission of driving innovation through collaboration, especially by offering insight into how data and technology can accelerate better health outcomes,” said Wiro.
- Sabine Mulders, who brings years of experience in healthcare innovation, policy, and strategic leadership in both pharma and medtech. With a background spanning academia and industry, Sabine strengthens the Board’s connection to patient-centred innovation and societal impact.
“Lygature’s commitment to societal impact through partnerships resonates strongly with my own belief in connecting science and policy to serve patients better. I look forward to being part of the Lygature Foundation’s journey,” said Sabine.
A vision for strategic supervision
With this renewed composition, the Lygature Board of Directors reaffirms its role as a strategic, supervisory, and connecting force – aligned with our mission to accelerate medical progress through public-private collaboration.
As Chair, Michel emphasizes the Board’s commitment:
“The current Lygature Board brings together substantive expertise, broad sector representation, and a clear strategic vision. Covering academic science, clinical practice, biotech, social services, and regulatory governance, we are well-positioned to guide Lygature in the coming years. The Board serves as a guardian of Lygature’s mission, combining sharpness, commitment, and connecting power to optimally support Lygature in its ambition to maintain and strengthen its unique position in the international research field.”
Updated governance framework
In June 2025, the Board adopted an updated Visie op Toezicht (Vision on Supervision), further clarifying its role and responsibilities. Key updates include:
- A clear articulation of the Board’s supervisory, strategic, and ambassadorial roles
- Reinforcement of a collegial governance style based on trust, transparency, and constructive dialogue
- A renewed focus on societal impact, integrity, and risk awareness
- Annual self-evaluation and strategic reflection to ensure continued alignment with Lygature’s mission
“These updates strengthen the Lygature Foundation and enable the Board to remain effective, reflective, and mission-driven. We are thrilled to welcome our new members and new Chair. Their insights and experience will be crucial as we continue to grow our impact. We also extend our sincere thanks to Hans van Eenennaam (biotech entrepreneur) and Jan Smit (Dean of RadboudUMC) who have stepped down from the Board after years of dedicated service,” said Jorg Janssen, Lygature’s Managing Director.