We are an ambitious team of neuroscientists with a diversity of academic backgrounds, but all intrigued by how motor behaviour and cognition is related to brain function and structure.




I’m Koen, assistant professor and principal investigator of the group. With my research, I try to better understand the ageing process and the brain in particular. I’m also interested in how the brain engages in motor control and what the influence of physical activity is on brain structure and function.


Hi! My name is Melina. I obtained my PhD in 2024, exploring how motor learning influences the brain’s neurometabolite levels, structure, and connectivity. Passionate about brain metabolism in health and disease, my postdoctoral research focuses on (neuro)metabolic health in diabetes.
Besides research, I love doing judo, engaging in arts and crafts, and being outside.
I’m Shanti, a doctoral student, and brain-enthusiast, investigating age-related alterations in the cerebellum and their link with motor control. Aside from brains, I’m fond of outdoor sports, mountains, cuddling other peoples’ cats, coffee and reading.


Hi! I’m Kia, a doctoral student examining the neurochemical markers of metabolic health and disease, with a specific focus on prediabetes. Outside the lab, I have an active lifestyle full of rock climbing, socializing and reading.
I’m Sara, a Ph.D. student since 2021. My doctoral project aims to understand how healthy and pathological aging differentially affect motor control and how this motor function and cognition are interconnected.
In my spare time, I enjoy doing sports, traveling and playing board games, preferably with family and friends.


Hi, I’m Jitske! I graduated in Biomedical Sciences in 2022, and I am currently doing a PhD in physiotherapy and rehabilitation sciences at UHasselt. My research focuses on the effect of exercise training on the brain in type 2 diabetes, with the aim to battle dementia in this patient group. In my free time, I like to go out with friends, and do sports, more specifically CrossFit, running and hiking.
Hi, I am Maud, doctoral student with a large fascination for the brain. My research project aims to better understand how ageing affects the brain and how this can be related to motor performance. In doing so, I also learn much about the magic of MRI. Apart from that, I love doing athletics, walking, riding my bike and enjoying a non-alcoholic beer.


Hello, I’m Katrien, a doctoral researcher since 2023. My research aims to unravel the mechanisms behind somatic tinnitus by examining the brain’s neurochemistry, structure, and function. Outside of my research, I enjoy exploring the world, learning Spanish, swimming, and spending quality time with friends.
Hi! My name is Robin, and my passion for research truly blossomed during my master’s and internships. My current research explores the effect of physical activity on the brain, and cognition in type 2 diabetes. Specifically, I focus on brain perfusion and blood-brain barrier integrity. As a movement scientist, I’m fascinated by how physical activity and sports can be utilized as a non-pharmacological treatment option. Outside of the lab, I enjoy staying active through swimming, weightlifting, and running while enjoying a night out or in with a good meal and good company.


Hello! I’m Svitlana, a Ph.D. student since 2024. My research explores whether increased brain activity in older adults during motor tasks acts as a compensatory mechanism or indicates neural inefficiency. To address this, I use advanced neuroimaging and brain stimulation techniques. Beyond my work, you can find me playing board games or video games or D&D. If I am not doing these, then I am watching a Marvel movie.
Enthousiast to join our team?
Get in touch!









