As of today, September 25, 2025, on the occasion of the 25th anniversary celebration of the Alzheimer Center Amsterdam, neurologist Jort Vijverberg has been appointed the new director of the Alzheimer Center Amsterdam. He succeeds the former leadership team of directors, Yolande Pijnenburg and Wiesje van der Flier. Vijverberg knows the center inside and out, and through his research on innovative medicines, biomarkers, and chronic brain injury in athletes, he brings valuable expertise and fresh energy to the role.

Vijverberg has been affiliated with the Alzheimer Center Amsterdam as a neurologist and researcher since 2018. He is involved in various studies aimed at better understanding and treating brain diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease. He is also co-founder of the CANDIDATE Center within Amsterdam Neuroscience, director of ADORE (a collaboration between oncology research and neuroscience within Amsterdam UMC) and an advisor to the Health Council of the Netherlands, the Dutch Sports Council, and the KNVB (Royal Dutch Football Association).

Connective leadership

With his background in science, organizational development, and leadership, Vijverberg brings a combination of substantive expertise and connecting skills. Vijverberg: “I look forward to working with the team to continue advancing the treatment and care of people with dementia.”

Jort Vijverberg

The Alzheimer Center Amsterdam is a wonderful place where groundbreaking research, care, and social engagement come together.
Jort Vijverberg
Neurologist and director of Alzheimer Center Amsterdam

At the anniversary symposium of the Alzheimer Center, Vijverberg emphasized the importance of collaboration within the clinical knowledge center. “Collaboration between patients and researchers is essential for our center, but international collaborations are equally vital. These partnerships will help us make progress in the fight to slow down, treat, and ultimately prevent Alzheimer’s disease.”

New steps

His appointment marks the farewell to two familiar faces within the management team. Yolande Pijnenburg will remain active at the Alzheimer Center as a neurologist and researcher in the field of early-onset dementia, as well as in her role within the Amsterdam Neuroscience research institute. Wiesje van der Flier will take up a position as director at Alzheimer Nederland, where she will continue to work on behalf of people with dementia and their loved ones.

Yolande Pijnenburg, Wiesje van der Flier and Astrid Joosten

Visit the Alzheimer Center Amsterdam website for more information.