Professor Dr. Katharina D’Herde is a distinguished expert in the field of biomedical sciences, focusing on anatomical and cell death research. She has been instrumental in advancing the understanding of human anatomy and cell death modalities through innovative and groundbreaking research. In the field of cell death, Prof. D’Herde has made many important contributions. For example, she was the first to discover subtypes of different cell death modalities in situ, including apoptosis, autophagy, and necrosis (D’Herde et al., Reproduction Nutrition Development, 1996). She identified mitochondrial heterogeneity in apoptosis, demonstrating that ATP is needed for the completion of the apoptotic cascade (D’Herde et al., Cell Death and Disease, 2000; Krysko et al., Journal of Histochemistry and Cytochemistry), and discovered the internalization mechanisms of apoptotic and necroptotic cancer cells with far-reaching applications for cancer immunotherapy (Krysko et al., Cell Death and Differentiation, 2006). In total, Prof. D’Herde has published more than 160 publications in national and international peer-reviewed journals in the fields of anatomy and cell death. Prof. D’Herde has been an active member of the ICDS and its Board of Directors for 30 years, during which her service has been immensely beneficial to the growth and development of the ICDS. Her research has not only enriched academic understanding but also paved the way for practical applications in medical diagnostics and treatment strategies.
Professor D’Herde is renowned for her rigorous scientific approach and her dedication to education. She is also committed to mentoring the next generation of scientists. During her career, Prof. D’Herde trained many Masters and Ph.D. students. Among them three who have become professors and independent scientists, including Prof. Dmitri Krysko, who is performing research in the field of cell death and cancer immunotherapy. Prof. D’Herde was the founder of a brand-new Anatomical Dissection Facility at the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences at Ghent University, equipped with state-of-the-art technology including an advanced 3D anatomy and virtual dissection platform, facilitating anatomical education for medical, dentistry, and biomedical students, honors programs, and medical doctors at Ghent University. This Anatomical Dissection Facility, together with the CETRAS – Centre for Training and Research in Anatomical Science, forms an integrated educational center dedicated to advancing knowledge and skill in the field of anatomy through state-of-the-art training, research, and practical application. Prof. D’Herde was one of the founders of CETRAS. She actively participates in teaching and supervisory roles not only within Ghent University, fostering a learning environment that encourages curiosity and critical thinking but also in several other universities. Prof. D’Herde was one of the key players in establishing the deal between The Technical University of Mombasa (Kenya) and Belgium’s Ghent University, which will stimulate collaboration between the institutions in various sectors including education and research.
Throughout different periods of her career, Prof. D’Herde was a Member of the Board of Governors of Ghent University, Academic Secretary of the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences at Ghent University, the Head of the Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Vice-Chair on Education of the Department of Human Structure and Repair, the Head of the Anatomy and Embryology Unit at the Department of Human Structure and Repair, and a Member of the Faculty Council.
Professor Katharina D’Herde’s leadership and expertise have not only shaped the trajectory of cell death and anatomy research but have also profoundly influenced the broader scientific community. Her commitment to excellence, collaborative spirit, and innovative approach have established her as a pillar in the biomedical sciences. As a leader, mentor, and scholar, her contributions extend beyond research papers and academic achievements, impacting the lives of her students, PhD students, colleagues, and the wider community. Her vision for a connected and progressive academic world continues to inspire those around her and promises to foster significant advancements in medical science for years to come. The legacy of Prof. D’Herde’s work is evident in the ongoing success of her students, the sustained relevance of her research, and the enduring partnerships she has built between institutions across continents. As we celebrate her outstanding career today, we also look forward to her continued influence in shaping the future of medical sciences and education.
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