Prof. Ilse Smolders is one of the scientists highlighted in Vrije Universiteit Brussel's "Zij is wetenschap" campaign.
Her research focuses on the neuroscience and pharmacology of refractory epilepsy and associated cognitive impairment, conditions that can strongly affect patients’ quality of life.
In her preclinical work, she develops innovative strategies that go beyond seizure suppression by targeting underlying disease mechanisms, for example through astrocytes and microglia, or through photopharmacology where light activates drugs precisely at the site of epileptic activity to minimize side effects.
She is also very passionate about teaching pharmacology.
Initiatives like "Zij is wetenschap" highlight the importance of making women in science more visible and recognizing their impact on research, education, and society.
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