Strasbourg, France, June 10, 2025 – Novalix is pleased to announce the return of Dr Luc Van Hijfte as Distinguished Research Fellow, Senior advisor Drug Discovery.
Luc Van Hijfte will take on a key strategic role at Novalix, with a mission focused on enhancing the company’s scientific visibility and development efforts. Luc will contribute to expanding Novalix in global markets and support its engagement in major industry events. This role will also include contributing to scientific initiatives that reflect Novalix’s ongoing commitment to innovation and collaboration.
Luc began his industrial career in 1986 at Merrell Dow in Strasbourg, France, and progressed to Head of Medicinal Chemistry by the time the site became part of Sanofi. In 2002 he joined Janssen (J&J) as Research Director in Val-de-Reuil, France, before being appointed Senior Director and Head of Medicinal Chemistry EU. In this role, he was responsible for European-based medicinal chemistry, analytical technologies, and ADMET activities.
Dr Luc Van Hijfte has contributed to numerous clinical programs across neurosciences, oncology, and infectious diseases. From 2012 to 2014, he served as Chief Scientific Officer at Novalix, and he has since been actively involved in several start-up ventures. He later joined Symeres as Senior Vice President and Head of Drug Discovery. In parallel, he serves as President of Phytodia, a Strasbourg-based company specializing in plant-derived active compounds.
Throughout his career, he has held key roles in scientific societies, including the SCT and EFMC, where he currently serves as President. In 2018, he was elected to the French “Académie Nationale de Pharmacie” for his contributions to pharmaceutical R&D.
Coming back to Novalix feels like completing a meaningful cycle—an opportunity to bring the experience I’ve gained over the years back to where so much of it began. It’s both a return and a new beginning.
Luc Van Hijfte’s deep expertise and extensive track record in drug discovery will be vital in strengthening our scientific outreach and propelling Novalix’s international growth.
We are excited to welcome him back to the team!