Léopold Van den Bergh

Léopold Van den Bergh is doing a PhD for APEO.

Graduating in 2023 from Gembloux Agro-Bio Tech, Léoopold Van den Berghe's research is aimed at combating apple tree diseases (scab). Using essential oils, he is developing biological alternatives to treat apple tree diseases.
Find out more about his career path.

Why did you choose to study at Gembloux Agro-Bio Tech?

I chose to study at Gembloux because I've always had a passion for science, especially life sciences. What I liked most about the faculty was the opportunity to try out different scientific subjects, other than biology, during the bachelor's degree course. I chose to do a master's degree in agronomy because of certain courses I took during my bachelor's degree, which sparked my interest in agronomy (BAS and the history of agriculture).

How would you describe your career path?

I'd describe my career as fascinating. I've learned an enormous amount that has satisfied my scientific curiosity and even sparked my passion for agriculture in particular. I also particularly liked the fact that I received good training in science, by which I mean experiment design, data processing and scientific rigor.

What were your objectives when choosing your studies?

To study scientific subjects with the aim of having a job that contributes to adapting to climate change. I didn't have any idea of what I wanted to do when I started my studies... I was hoping that my baccalaureate would give me some concrete guidance on my choice of Master's degree, and it did.

What are the challenges involved in your research?

To provide arboriculturists with biological alternatives to conventional synthetic pesticides. The aim is to reduce the negative impact on human health and biodiversity of the phytopharmaceutical treatments required for apple production.

What memories do you have of your time as a student?

Very fond memories, although I didn't have the opportunity to get heavily involved in student life in Gemblout, that didn't stop me from meeting a lot of great people. I've also been touched by the mutual support that exists among students, which helps a lot in what are, after all, quite demanding studies.

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