The Dutch Association for Pediatric Neurology (NVKN) has awarded the 2024 Cornelia de Lange Medal to neurologist and researcher Frans Leijten. This prestigious honor is presented biennially to an individual who has made an exceptional contribution to pediatric neurology. The NVKN board unanimously selected Frans for this distinction.
Frans Leijten graduated in Medicine from UMC Utrecht in 1986 and quickly developed his expertise in epilepsy and neurophysiology. After completing his specialization as a neurologist and neurophysiologist in 1994, he began his career as an epileptologist at SEIN. Two years later, he earned his PhD at Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC) and continued his career as a clinical neurophysiologist at UMC Utrecht.
Throughout his career, Frans has played a pivotal role in the Dutch pediatric epilepsy surgery program. Thanks to his dedication and expertise, this program has achieved an exceptionally high standard. Frans has also left an indelible mark on education. He is regarded as a passionate and inspiring teacher of clinical neurophysiology, shaping generations of physicians and researchers. With over 150 scientific publications to his name, he is a leading authority in his field.
The Cornelia de Lange Medal is awarded biennially by the Dutch Association for Pediatric Neurology (NVKN). This distinction honors individuals who have made significant contributions to care, education, or research in pediatric neurology. The medal is named after Cornelia de Lange, the first female professor of medicine in the Netherlands and a pioneer in pediatrics. Her work has had a lasting impact on the field.
