Strategic expertise to support Oncode Institute’s mission
 

Leeftink will be responsible for strategy, governance, and valorization — three core areas essential to Oncode Institute’s future direction. His appointment reflects Oncode Institute’s ambition to further integrate science and impact in the years to come.

Bertholt Leeftink brings a proven track record at the intersection of government, innovation, and business. Between 2019 and 2024, he served as CEO of NRG PALLAS, a global leader in the production of medical isotopes. Prior to that, he was Director-General for Enterprise and Innovation at the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate Policy. In this capacity, he played an instrumental role in the founding of Oncode Institute in 2017. 

Throughout his career, Leeftink has been a strong advocate of innovation through public-private partnerships and was closely involved in the creation of Invest-NL to increase access to risk capital for start-ups and scale-ups. He brings broad experience across the life sciences sector and beyond, combining policy insight with operational leadership. 

Leeftink holds a PhD in economics from the University of Amsterdam, where he also completed his undergraduate studies. 

Bertholt Leeftink on his appointment at Oncode Institute: 

“Oncode Institute has shown that fundamental research and societal impact go hand in hand. I look forward to working with our researchers, funders, stakeholders and colleagues to shape a robust, sustainable strategy for valorization and financing. Only through collaboration can we unlock the full value of excellent research—ultimately for the benefit of patients.” 

Appointed by Supervisory Board 

The appointment was made by Oncode Institute’s Supervisory Board. Chair Melvin Samsom elaborates on the decision: 

“With Leeftink, we welcome a leader who combines strategic insight with a strong commitment to innovation. His knowledge of the Dutch innovation ecosystem and experience in financing and valorization will be highly valuable to Oncode Institute. We are confident he and Jan Paul Medema will guide the institute into a new era of impact.” 

Jan Paul Medema, Scientific Director, adds: 

“Bertholt brings a wide-ranging perspective shaped by leadership roles in both public and private sectors. His expertise in strategy, governance and valorization aligns closely with our mission. I look forward to working together to continue building an institute where science and impact reinforce one another.” 

Transition in leadership 

Earlier this month, Oncode Institute said farewell to Chris De Jonghe, who served as Valorization Director. We thank Chris for her dedicated efforts and contributions over the past years. 

Read more about the Oncode Institute organisation on: 
https://oncodeinstitute.nl/about/our-organisation 

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