The academic workplace between Arbo Unie and Amsterdam UMC on physical risks and health strengthens healthy and safe working by connecting science and practice. We study physical work‑related risks and develop knowledge that helps prevent work‑related health problems.


About us

The Academic Workplace is a collaboration between Amsterdam UMC (Public and Occupational Health) and Arbo Unie. Together, we connect science and daily practice. Our goal is to keep workers healthy by improving insight into physical workload and risks of complaints, especially musculoskeletal disorders.

We develop knowledge that occupational health professionals can use directly. This includes tools for prevention, ways to recognise risks early, advice for a healthy work environment, and interventions that support return to work.

Our core tasks are:

  • conducting research

  • translating knowledge into practical use

  • contributing to education for future and current professionals


Research

We study how physical workload and other work‑related risks contribute to health problems. We also look at which measures help to prevent or reduce complaints, and how people can return to work in a healthy and sustainable way after symptoms or absence.

Examples of current projects:

The Academic Workplace is part of the Arbo Unie Knowledge Institute Work & Health. Here, researchers and professionals combine their expertise to develop new insights and practical solutions. For more information: Arbo Unie Kennisinstituut Werk & Gezondheid.


Education

We introduce students to occupational medicine and healthy working. We also supervise internships. Please contact us if you are interested in such an internship.


Patient Care

We support professionals in occupational health care in recognising and preventing work‑related health problems. We do this by sharing knowledge, developing practical tools, and providing insights into physical risks in the workplace.

Careers

Vacancies for the Academic Workplace at Amsterdam UMC are posted on the careers page: https://werkenbij.amsterdamumc.org


Contact

Please contact one of the coordinators of the Academic Workplace for more information:

Pieter Coenen
Amsterdam UMC
Discover the PURE profile of Pieter Coenen

Erwin Speklé
Arbo Unie
The website of Arbo Unie features an interview with Erwin Speklé