Matchmaking session | From Barriers to Breakthroughs – Teknowlogy 2026

Short bio
Hanneke Hermans is a Project Manager and Business Developer at the Laboratory of Phytopathology at Wageningen University & Research, where she coordinates complex research projects and collaborations across academia and industry. She brings a multidisciplinary background (MSc) in Mechanical Engineering and Agro Ecological Innovation, with expertise in agricultural systems, public–private partnerships, and international research coordination. Her portfolio spans multilateral consortia and bilateral industry projects at WUR since 2020, including East African Highland banana improvement (BMGF-funded), identifying causal agents of emerging diseases such as Avariato in hazelnut production, and coordinating cross-continental initiatives like the Oil Clips program on climate extremes and invasive pathogens in palm oil in Colombia and Indonesia, as well as research on microbial spore dynamics to improve Frosty Pod Rot control in cacao in Ecuador. Her +15 years of international experience across Europe, Asia, and Latin America have positioned her at the interface of science and practice. In her work, she is particularly focused on translating scientific insights into actionable solutions, ensuring that research outcomes effectively contribute to resilient and sustainable agricultural systems.

Short description of the pitch To follow