On 22 April 2026, Hasselt University celebrates a double milestone: 35 years of the Institute for Materials Research (IUMAT) and 25 years of collaboration as an associated lab with imec. To mark this special occasion, an honorary degree will be awarded to Luc Van den hove, CEO of imec. Under his leadership, imec has grown into a globally leading research ecosystem, bridging fundamental science with industrial innovation and real societal impact. This recognition highlights his visionary and collaborative approach to research. 

You are warmly invited to join us for this special ceremony. 

2 PM - Academic session

• Welcome by Rector Bernard Vanheusden
• Shaping materials, enabling technology: 35 years of Materials Research and 25 years of cooperation
   between UHasselt and imec.
• Solemn Conferment of the Honorary Doctorate
• Laudatio
• Lecture by the new honorary doctor

4 PM - Reception