Jaqueline Lourdes Rios is an Assistant Professor at the University Medical Center Utrecht, in the Department of Orthopaedics. Her primary focus is on understanding the onset, mechanisms, and treatment strategies for osteoarthritis, with a particular interest in controlled drug release, patient stratification, and the transition to animal-free models. Her research spans in vitro, in vivo, and clinical trials, collaborating with national and international academic partners and industry to develop innovative therapeutic approaches.

In addition to her work in osteoarthritis, Dr. Rios also investigates implant infections, focusing on diagnostic and therapeutic strategies. Her team develops targeted delivery systems using aptamers and antibodies to transport radionuclides and other therapeutic agents to infection sites, with or without antibiotics, aiming for improved precision in diagnosis and treatment.

Dr. Rios earned her PhD in Kinesiology from the University of Calgary, Canada, where she explored exercise and dietary interventions in metabolic knee osteoarthritis models. She has secured multiple prestigious research grants, including funding from the NWO and the National Growth Fund, and has received numerous awards for her contributions to the field.

Beyond research, Dr. Rios is actively involved in teaching and mentoring within the Gradute School of Life Sciences master’s program and t PhD program at Utrecht University. Through her interdisciplinary approach, she aims to develop innovative therapies for osteoarthritis and implant infections, bridging fundamental research and clinical application to enhance patient outcomes.