Center/Research Area Affiliations
Biography
Through the study and development of technologies that overcome current translational hurdles, Dr. Vandenberghe is helping to position gene therapy as a broadly applicable clinical modality in ophthalmology. Previously, he developed a novel adeno-associated viral vector (AAV) platform, and in translational studies, he characterized those for safety and efficacy parameters in large animal models. His current research focuses on gene therapy for neurosensory disorders, especially retinal blindness. He is on the editorial board of Molecular Therapy and is an active member of the American Society of Cell and Gene Therapy, for which he chairs the educational committee. In addition, he co-founded GenSight Biologics, a biotech entity that pursues innovative ocular gene therapy strategies.
Education
MS.c., Ph.D., Biological Engineering in Cellular and Genetic Biotechnology, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Belgium (2008)
Postgraduate Training
Postdoctoral fellowship (James M. Wilson, MD PhD), Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania (2007-2010)
Postdoctoral fellowship (Jean Bennett, MD PhD), Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania (2010-2012)
Honors
2016: Mass. Eye and Ear Curing Kids Award
2011: 1st Prize Basic Science Session, Sylvan M. Cohen Annual Retreat, Institute on Aging, University of Pennsylvania
2006: Late Breaking Abstract, American Society of Gene Therapy Annual MEeting
2005: Travel Grant, European Society of Gene Therapy