Open House: Visit ITM and experience science up close!
SCIENCE FICTION becomes reality
What happens behind the walls of the Institute of Tropical Medicine in Antwerp?
You may have visited us before for travel advice, vaccinations, or testing, but that is only a glimpse of what takes place here every day.
In 2026, we celebrate a special milestone: ITM turns 120. And we would love to celebrate this with you. During our open house, you will get a unique behind-the-scenes look at our iconic buildings in the heart of the city. Discover how science comes to life, meet our researchers and students, and experience how we work every day towards better health worldwide.
Our doors will be open on Sunday 31 May, from 10:00 to 17:00. Come by and be surprised, young explorers are more than welcome too. At the information desk, you will receive a programme booklet and practical information to help you make the most of your visit. At the bottom of this page, you can already discover a preview of the activities awaiting you.
Practical
Date: Sunday 31 May 2026
Time: 10:00 – 17:00 (CET)
Language: Dutch
Admission: Free and open to all
Registration: Required for guided tours only
Location: Campus Rochus: Sint-Rochusstraat 43, 2000 Antwerp
Activities
Meet our research
Discover at interactive stands what our researchers work on every day, from infectious diseases and immunology to maternal health and new diagnostic techniques.
Continuous activity
Innovation in action
Discover how research leads to concrete and affordable solutions. Explore the innovation stations and attend short demonstrations at scheduled times.
Continuous activity
Study with us
Meet ITM students, lecturers, and alumni. Discover our educational programmes through personal conversations in an informal setting.
Continuous activity
Lightning talks
Short, accessible talks in which researchers clearly and engagingly present their work. In just 15 minutes, you’ll be introduced to current topics in tropical medicine and global health.
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This is your lab
Step into the shoes of a researcher with a lab coat and lab props in our photobooth. You’ll take home a fun photo as a souvenir.
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Futureproofing
Discover how you can support ITM and learn more about the institute’s vision for the future. You can also visit the stand with ITM products.
Continuous activity
Guided tour. In History.
Experience a unique guided tour through the impressive main building, with special attention to its Art Deco style, history, and architecture.
Guided tour. In the Lab.
Take a look inside our teaching labs and specialised immunology lab. Discover how we analyse diseases and support doctors in diagnosis and treatment.
Register for this guided tour.
Guided tour. In Care.
Discover how care, research, and innovation come together at ITM. Visit our Clinical Trial Site, the policlinic, and our Cryo facility, where biological samples are safely stored for future research.
Register for this guided tour.
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