As of March 2025, prof. Max Nieuwdorp has been appointed Scientific Director of the HELIUS study.
Max Nieuwdorp, an internist and former department head at Amsterdam UMC, has been actively involved in providing care to Amsterdam’s diverse population. He specializes in diabetes mellitus, metabolic disorders, and the crucial role of the gut microbiome in health and disease. With his extensive experience in scientific research and his strong commitment to reducing health disparities, Max Nieuwdorp will play a key role in further developing and leading HELIUS.
“From the very beginning of HELIUS, I have felt a deep connection to this project, as I encounter the existing health disparities among people living in Amsterdam in my work as a physician every day. For over 14 years, the HELIUS cohort aims to better understand the causes of these disparities. And to uncover new players, such as our gut flora, in health and disease. These findings not only lead to scientific publications but are also translated into better and more targeted detection and treatment of these diseases. This is only possible thanks to the thousands of HELIUS participants, for whom I have great respect. Together, we are making a difference!”