I graduated in 1996 from Wageningen University in the Netherlands with a degree in Bioprocess Engineering.
1996
I began my career in 1996 as a researcher in the Food Extrusion Group at the Agrotechnological Research Institute in the Netherlands.
In this role, I worked on product development projects utilising extrusion technology for various clients in both the food and feed industries.
1998
In 1998, I took on a role as a Scientist in Food Production at Danone Research in the Netherlands.
My primary focus was on utilising extrusion technology to develop innovative infant and specialised nutritional products, along with the ingredients required for them.
2003
In 2003, I joined the Aquaculture Research Centre (ARC) of Skretting in Stavanger, Norway, as a Researcher specializing in Feed Processing and Technology.
Skretting is a global leader in innovative and sustainable aquafeeds, with production facilities in 18 countries across five continents.
Extrusion, alongside pelleting, is a core technology used in many aquafeed products. During my time in this position, I achieved significant results, including implementing improved aquafeed production processes and developing new aquafeed products.
Additionally, I supported full-scale manufacturing plants in enhancing their daily operations.
2008
From 2008 to the end of 2021, I led the Feed Production R&D department at Skretting, managing an international team of 12 researchers and process engineers. In this role, I developed and executed an R&D portfolio for extruded and pelleted fish and shrimp feeds, including the associated production processes.
During these years, I was a member of the global R&D management team, as well as the global innovation and production teams. Additionally, I managed a continuous optimisation program for all Skretting aqua feed plants worldwide, which produce over 2 million tons of feed annually for more than 60 species, spanning from hatching to harvest.
At the same time, I was responsible for identifying and creating new business opportunities beyond traditional aqua feeds. These opportunities included initiatives related to protein production through fermentation and the development of cellular nutrition expertise for producing cultured meat (lab-grown meat).
2022
In early 2022, I launched my own business offering consultancy services and expert advice in aqua feed processing and production technology.
See practical examples of my aquafeed consultancy work in real production conditions — from capacity recovery and feed quality improvement to process troubleshooting, OEE actions, product development, and plant-level evidence for new raw materials.
Publications
You can find an overview of scientific publications where I am a (co-)author at Researchgate.