Marthe De Boevre

Marthe De Boevre is an internationally recognized expert in mycotoxin research and environmental health. She began her scientific career at Ghent University in 2009, earning her PhD in 2013. Her early work made a significant impact, contributing to the European Food Safety Authority’s (EFSA) scientific opinion on modified mycotoxins. As head of the Centre of Excellence in Mycotoxicology & Public Health (CEMPH) at Ghent University, De Boevre leads advanced research in exposomics, developing state-of-the-art analytical methods to quantify small molecules in human biospecimens. Her focus lies on the clinical relevance of mycotoxin exposure, particularly in relation to cancer risk, growth retardation, and age-related health outcomes. Her lab operates under EN-ISO17025 principles, ensuring the highest standards in data quality and reproducibility. She is the author of over 150 high-impact scientific publications and serves as principal investigator on more than 15 international research projects. De Boevre has pioneered toxicokinetic studies on deoxynivalenol and introduced innovative microsampling techniques for non-invasive exposure monitoring in vulnerable populations. She coordinates MYTOX-SOUTH®, a global partnership improving food safety and public health in low- and middle-income countries through scientific collaboration and capacity building. In 2022, she was awarded a prestigious ERC Starting Grant for her HUMYCO project, exploring the human mycobolome’s role in cancer development. De Boevre is also the Principal Investigator of GLORIA – Health Monitor®, Belgium’s largest population-based cohort study, which investigates genome–exposome interactions in aging and chronic disease. Her strategic leadership, scientific excellence, and commitment to public health have attracted significant investment and elevated her as a leading figure in preventive health research on a global scale.

Domains of expertise

  • Preventive health
  • Analytical chemistry
  • Clinical biology
  • Population health
  • Mycotoxicology

Selected projects & research platforms

  • MYTOX-SOUTH (https://mytoxsouth.org/) MYTOX-SOUTH® is an international research and capacity-building network, dedicated to tackling the global health burden of mycotoxins - harmful fungal toxins that contaminate food supplies, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. The initiative brings together universities, research centers, and health agencies across Africa, Latin America, and Asia to build local expertise in food safety and public health. At its core, MYTOX-SOUTH® aims to empower local scientists and institutions through joint PhD programs, hands-on training, and infrastructure development. The network fosters applied research on the occurrence, exposure, and health effects of mycotoxins in regional diets, generating essential data for evidence-based policymaking. What sets MYTOX-SOUTH® apart is its long-term commitment to sustainable impact - supporting not just scientific innovation, but also local ownership and leadership. By bridging scientific excellence with real-world application, the network contributes to reducing health risks, improving food system resilience, and promoting equitable global health. Through MYTOX-SOUTH®, we have created a model for impactful, interdisciplinary research that addresses one of the most under-recognized but widespread food safety challenges in the Global South.
  • GLORIA - HEALTH MONITOR (https://gezondheidsmonitor.gent/en/homepage/)GLORIA –Health Monitor® is Belgium’s largest population-based cohort study designed to uncover how the complex interplay between our genes and environment influences health across the lifespan. With over 20,000 participants being followed longitudinally, GLORIA provides a unique opportunity to explore how lifestyle, environmental exposures, and biological factors contribute to aging, chronic disease, and overall well-being. What makes GLORIA exceptional is its integrated exposome approach: combining detailed molecular, genetic, environmental, and lifestyle data to gain a comprehensive understanding of individual health trajectories. Participants undergo regular assessments, including biospecimen collection and lifestyle monitoring, enabling researchers to detect subtle biological changes that may predict future health outcomes. The study not only supports cutting-edge research into disease prevention and early intervention, but also provides crucial evidence to guide public health policy in Belgium and beyond. By identifying modifiable risk factors and vulnerable populations, GLORIA helps inform strategies for healthier aging and reduced disease burden. GLORIA represents a forward-thinking model of population health research - connecting science, policy, and prevention to build a healthier future.

Selected publications

  1. https://www.webofscience.com/wos/woscc/full-record/WOS:001379178300055
  2. https://www.webofscience.com/wos/woscc/full-record/WOS:001476304400001
  3. https://www.webofscience.com/wos/woscc/full-record/WOS:001310022400001

Work details