Karel van der Weg is a dedicated researcher with an affection for biochemical data and machine learning. He began his academic journey with a BSc. in chemistry at Utrecht Univeristy, followed by a MSc. in chemical engineering at the University of Twente. He then pursued a PhD focused on machine learning for enzymes, where he developed enzyme databases and advanced machine learning methods, including 3D-aware graph neural networks, multimodal systems and generative models for protein dynamics.

Currently Karel works at International Flavors & Fragrances (IFF), where he combines expertise in artificial intelligence and biochemistry to identify and generate novel lead candidates. He also develops automation systems that enable a fully data-driven, lab-in-the-loop research workflow. 

With extensive experience at the intersection onto AI and life sciences, Karel regularly shares his expertise through presentations, lectures and educational activities for both specialist and broader audiences.