S. (Sam) Riedijk, PhD

Dr. Sam Riedijk is Associate Professor and Principal Investigator of the Social Genomics team. Her work spans education, research, and clinical care, driven by a vision to align genomic innovations with societal needs and values. She initiated and leads the two-year master program Genomics in Society, designed to train transdisciplinary professionals in impact research and responsible innovation. In research, Sam leads the DNA Dialogen and is workpackage leader in Cure4Life, two Dutch Science Agenda research projects. Pioneering societal engagement in genomics and improving access to gene therapy are central in these national consortium-based research projects. Her Convergence Fellowship advances transdisciplinary education within Healthy Start, linking research and teaching. Clinically, Sam offers psychological support to individuals and couples facing complex genetic decisions, particularly in prenatal care. Combining clinical expertise, research leadership, and educational innovation, the social genomics teams take active part in shaping the future of genomic medicine.

In addition to research I have developed and coordinate the minor Genetics in Society, which is open to third year university students. Currently, I am involved in a SKO trajectory (senior education qualification). My main area of patient care is in prenatal genetics. I offer decision-counseling and support to pregnant couples who decide about the course of their pregnancy when fetal anomalies have been found.