Innoviris invests in disruptive projects through the ‘Brains for Brussels’ programme
Brussels as a true centre of cutting-edge research
As part of the Brains for Brussels (BFB) 2025 edition, Innoviris is investing €1,073,329 in two innovative projects falling under the category of ‘high-risk, high-return’ (HRHR) research, with a strong focus on the social and economic benefits for the Brussels-Capital Region.
Researchers pushing the boundaries of knowledge through ‘off-the-beaten-track’ research
The Brains for Brussels programme aims to attract and establish ‘visionary researchers’: individuals capable of thinking outside the box and challenging existing scientific paradigms. The funded projects are characterised by so-called ‘off-the-beaten-track’ research – innovative approaches that transcend traditional disciplines and aim for both major scientific breakthroughs and practical applications.
By focusing on researchers with international experience or expertise in the industrial sector, Innoviris aims to attract new talent to Brussels whilst strengthening the regional innovation ecosystem in the long term.
Selected research projects
- ECMCAN – A major breakthrough in the fight against pancreatic cancer (UCLouvain)
The ECMCAN project investigates the influence of the extracellular matrix (ECM) on the behaviour of cancer cells, with a particular focus on pancreatic cancer and resistance to treatment. The aim is to identify new regulatory mechanisms that play a key role in tumour development and therapeutic resistance.
In the short term, the project will identify new biological mechanisms, which will be published in international scientific journals. It will also help lay the foundations for an independent research laboratory in Brussels.
In the medium term (from the fourth year onwards), ECMCAN will develop a drug discovery programme in collaboration with Brussels-based laboratories. The project also envisages the validation of biomarkers in larger patient cohorts and the extension of research to other diseases.
Long-term impact
The results could lead to more personalised cancer treatments, offering patients faster access to tailored therapies and improving their quality of life. The project also opens up prospects for economic value creation, notably through the potential creation of a spin-off and collaborations with companies in the Brussels ecosystem.
2. QBA? – Who is building Brussels? (ULB)
The ‘QBA? – Who is building?’ project examines the often-overlooked role of migrant workers in the construction of Brussels and raises fundamental questions about the ethics of urban and architectural development.
Through a socio-historical analysis of two iconic urban projects, the research highlights the evolution of working conditions and migration dynamics. It aims to identify the structural barriers to more ethical and inclusive urban development.
In the short term, the project will result in academic publications, conferences, a podcast and a symposium designed to fuel public debate.
In the medium term, it will develop practical tools such as evaluation criteria for architectural competitions, policy recommendations and mechanisms to facilitate networking among stakeholders.
Long-term impact
The project aims to have a significant societal and political impact. It contributes to improving working conditions, promotes more inclusive urbanisation and supports the development of public policies on migration and employment. It also strengthens the public debate on the social and human dimensions of urban development in Brussels.