Our new Editor-in-Chief, Dr. Marco Goeijenbier, answers 5 questions on his research backgrounds, career highlights, and his plans for Tropical Diseases, Travel Medicine and Vaccines.

Dr. Marco Goeijenbier currently serves as a specialist in acute internal medicine and critical care at Spaarne Hospital in Haarlem, the Netherlands. 

What is your research background?

After completing my medical degree, I pursued a Master's in Biomedical Research with a focus on Infection and Immunity, which led to a PhD position in the Department of Virology. My doctoral work centered on how viruses impact haemostasis, particularly in cases of hemorrhagic fever.

Post-PhD, I expanded my research to include targeted prevention in at-risk groups and the growing issue of vaccine hesitancy. Currently, my research group is dedicated to studying severe acute respiratory infections (SARI), the role of coagulation in viral pathogenesis, and both vaccination efficacy and hesitancy.

I thrive in the space between basic science and clinical practice, bridging these two vital disciplines.

What is your favorite thing about work?

I have a dynamic and versatile workweek. About 70% of my time is dedicated to being a clinical intensivist at the intensive care unit of Spaarne Gasthuis in Haarlem. My duties there include conducting daily rounds, being on call for night and weekend shifts, and teaching residents.

In addition to my clinical responsibilities, I spend a significant amount of time on research activities. I supervise four active PhD students, write grants, and engage in various board duties. I am an active board member of the European Scientific Working Group on Influenza (ESWI) and currently chair the Influenza and Diabetes Community.

I like all aspects of my job, but what I like the most is that it’s always changing and no one day is the same.

What has been your biggest challenge and your greatest achievement in your career so far?

I've faced some challenges throughout my still relatively young career. I haven't always enjoyed the political aspects of working in academia. The pandemic has been a significant challenge in intensive care, but from a virology perspective, it has also been fascinating and demanding.

I am particularly proud of founding the Influenza Diabetes Foundation, which takes a truly transdisciplinary approach. This initiative brings together experts from various fields, including patients, nurses, clinicians, and basic scientists. Also, I am proud to have started as the Editor-in-Chief for Tropical Diseases, Travel Medicine and Vaccines. 

What sorts of papers are you excited to commission? 

I enjoy the combination of data and expertise within a single paper. I find it particularly satisfying to integrate model hypotheses with clinical data, as well as cell culture and animal model data.

I'm also excited about our work on neglected diseases and travel medicine, where we've uncovered new insights that could significantly impact global health. Additionally, our research on vaccination in at-risk groups aims to improve prevention strategies and address the growing challenge of vaccine hesitancy. These areas of study hold immense potential for advancing medical science and improving patient outcomes

Why should authors submit to the journal?

We aim to be fast, honest, and flexible. In the coming years, we will develop new topics and interactive ways to present your paper to readers.

Our journal, Tropical Diseases, Travel Medicine and Vaccines, is dedicated to providing cutting-edge research and insights in these critical areas. We strive to deliver high-quality content that is both informative and engaging, making complex topics accessible to a wide audience. Whether you're a researcher, clinician, or public health professional, our journal offers valuable perspectives and the latest findings to support your work and advance global health. Join us in exploring the exciting developments in neglected diseases, travel medicine, and vaccination strategies for at-risk groups.