Pedro Hermkens Stipend awarded to Miguel Rodríguez Fuentes

Last week, Miguel Rodríguez Fuentes of Sublin Therapeutics was awarded the 2026 Pedro Hermkens Stipend, supporting his ambition to further develop his expertise in bioinformatics and biostatistics. 

The annual stipend honours the impact of emeritus professor Pedro Hermkens of HAN University of Applied Sciences and supports the educational ambitions of employees working at companies based at Pivot Park. Each year, employees can apply for funding of up to €1,000 towards a course or educational programme that contributes to their professional development. 

The Pedro Hermkens Stipend reflects Pivot Park’s ambition to encourage continuous learning and professional development across the campus. By supporting employees in expanding their knowledge and skills, the stipend contributes to the talent and expertise that drive innovation within the Pivot Park ecosystem. 

Miguel received the stipend to support his Master’s programme in Bioinformatics and Biostatistics, jointly offered by the Universitat Oberta de Catalunya (UOC) and the University of Barcelona (UB). The 60 ECTS programme combines bioinformatics and biostatistics, covering areas including genomics, proteomics, statistical modelling, artificial intelligence and machine learning applied to the biosciences.  

Turning data into impact 

With a background in biotechnology, Miguel developed a strong interest in data-driven approaches to biological research. At Sublin Therapeutics, where he works on the development of a sublingual film for needle-free insulin delivery, he sees a direct connection between his studies and his day-to-day work. 

By strengthening his knowledge of data analysis, machine learning and statistical modelling, Miguel aims to contribute to data-intensive projects and evidence-based decision-making within Sublin Therapeutics.  

Combining a Master’s degree with his professional responsibilities requires considerable commitment. For Miguel, however, the programme is an opportunity to develop skills that benefit both his own career and the future growth and innovation of Sublin Therapeutics.  

Congratulations to Miguel on receiving the 2026 Pedro Hermkens Stipend! 

#100YEARSPHARMAFUTURE

The development of medicines in Oss began one hundred years ago. It was then that the foundations were laid for what would become a flourishing pharmaceutical sector in the Netherlands, leading to groundbreaking discoveries such as insulin and the anti-conception pill.

Today, the entire chain is still represented in Oss, from early-stage research to the commercial scale production of medicines. Working in Oss, we focus on the health of people all over the world. Employees at dozens of companies large and small put their heart and soul into new medicines, products and services that will improve lives worldwide. Together, our strength lies in our combination of broad knowledge about the development of medicines and a thorough understanding of the requirements of high-quality production.

This shared past and common values stimulate strong bonds among everyone who works in pharmaceuticals in Oss. We build on qualities, expertise and networks that go back decades. And with a wide variety of pharmaceutical companies, suppliers and scientific institutions all located nearby, we offer an attractive business climate and an excellent basis for international collaboration.

We are proud to work together to create a better and healthier future for all, a collaboration that in turn fuels growing employment: today, most pharmaceutical jobs in the Netherlands are in Oss. Here we connect talent and companies and stimulate entrepreneurship, while our expert employees are our most important asset. Their drive ensures that Oss has an influence on health all over the world.

Pharma in Oss offers endless opportunities to startups and talent in a city and region that is a joy to live and work in. We are committed to collaboration and sustainable and successful entrepreneurship. Oss’s pharmaceutical companies are intrinsically competitive while also being committed to quality and safety. This, plus their focus on new health solutions and contemporary technology, makes us a leader in our pursuit of a better life for people worldwide.