Dirk Verellen Honored with Emmanuel van der Schueren Award at ESTRO 2025

The journey through science is often marked by milestones of discovery, but for Prof. Dirk Verellen, it has been a lifelong climb guided by curiosity, teamwork, and an unwavering commitment to improving cancer care. At ESTRO 2025, this journey was recognized in a powerful way: he received the Emmanuel van der Schueren Award, one of the highest honors in European radiation oncology.

From his early days in Belgium to becoming a pioneering figure in medical physics, Verellen’s story is a moving testament to the impact of dedication, vision, and working together toward a common goal.

Verellen’s Path of Purpose: From Physics to Patient Care

Growing up, Dirk Verellen was fascinated by physics, earning a PhD in solid-state science. But it wasn’t until he stepped into the world of medical physics that he discovered the true power of science—its ability to save lives. What began as a technical career quickly became a calling.

His career blossomed first at UZ Brussel, a place he fondly calls a “playground” for innovation, where he and his colleagues developed groundbreaking systems in image-guided radiotherapy (IGRT) long before the field had defined paths or textbooks.

“It was a time of pure exploration,” Verellen recalled. “The challenge wasn’t just solving problems—it was creating the solutions that didn’t yet exist.”

Building Systems That Serve All

Later, at the Iridium Network in Antwerp, his role evolved. Innovation was no longer just about possibility—it was about accessibility. Verellen’s focus turned to standardizing high-quality radiation oncology so that every patient in the region could benefit from cutting-edge care.

Now, he works on the next frontier: developing adaptive workflows tailored to individual patients while ensuring healthcare systems under strain can still deliver excellence.

“We’re entering an era of automation and AI,” he explained. “But we must never lose sight of patient safety, quality assurance, and the human connection at the heart of care.”

Anchored by ESTRO: A Community and a Cause

Verellen’s bond with ESTRO spans decades. He has chaired landmark teaching courses, served on the board, and helped launch initiatives like the Physics Workshops, which bring together Europe’s brightest minds in radiation oncology.

For Verellen, ESTRO isn’t just a professional platform—it’s a second home.

“ESTRO is where we come together—not just to share knowledge, but to build relationships that shape the future.”

A Moment of Recognition: The Emmanuel van der Schueren Award

Receiving this award at ESTRO 2025 was more than a personal milestone—it was a tribute to a collective journey. Verellen dedicated the honor to his partner Chris, to his patients, and to his team members—his “compagnons de route.” He also paid heartfelt tribute to Prof. Dr. Guy Storme, his mentor and guide.

“This award reflects not only my work, but the strength of the teams I’ve been privileged to work with.”

OncoDaily x ESTRO: Collaborating Live at ESTRO 2025

This year’s congress carried an added dimension of innovation through communication—OncoDaily proudly joined ESTRO as an official media partner for ESTRO 2025, held from May 2–6 at the Messe Wien Exhibition & Congress Center in Vienna, Austria.

Under the theme “Transformative Innovation Through Partnership,” this collaboration reflects the shared mission of both organizations: to inform, connect, and elevate the global oncology community.

As the largest radiation oncology event in Europe, ESTRO 2025 offers:

• Breakthrough scientific updates

• Interdisciplinary collaboration

• Activities for early-career professionals

• Europe’s largest industry exhibition in radiation oncology

The congress also reinforces ESTRO’s 2030 vision:

“Radiation Oncology. Optimal Health for All, Together.”

With OncoDaily’s trusted, real-time reporting, global audiences can engage with key announcements, expert conversations, and inspirational moments—like Prof. Verellen’s award ceremony—that shape the future of cancer treatment.

Looking Forward: A Legacy of Impact

Prof. Dirk Verellen’s story isn’t just about scientific excellence—it’s about creating systems that put patients first, mentoring the next generation, and never stopping the climb toward better care.

And as ESTRO and OncoDaily continue to shine a light on the people and progress driving oncology forward, his legacy becomes part of a broader movement—one built on knowledge, empathy, and the power of collaboration.

“Don’t let the challenges of today define the future,” Verellen might say. “It’s how we rise to meet them—together—that truly matters.”

Be Part of the Conversation

As we celebrate voices like Prof. Verellen’s and groundbreaking moments from ESTRO 2025, we invite you to stay connected with the global oncology community.

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By: Md Foorquan Hashmi, MD, Sr. Editor, OncoDaily: India Bureau