EquiVita Genetics
EquiVita Genetics, founded by brother and sister Viktor-Jan and Charlotte Vertessen, is an innovative startup that applies techniques from human medicine to equine reproduction. We fill an important gap in modern horse breeding, with a strong focus on scientific precision and practical applicability.
EquiVita Genetics aims to transform the global equestrian industry by developing and implementing innovative reproductive technologies. With a unique combination of advanced scientific expertise, in-depth genetic knowledge, and a strong commitment to equine welfare, EquiVita Genetics provides sustainable solutions for breeders, riders, and owners—contributing to healthier, stronger, and higher-performing horses.
SEX-SORTING TECHNOLOGY
The technology in the field of equine fertility has made significant advancements in recent years, thanks to innovations such as embryo transfers, intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), and sperm cryopreservation. Despite these developments, the selection of a foal’s sex—a crucial factor in both sport and breeding—remains impossible.
The ability to predetermine a foal’s sex would enable mare owners to strategically plan their future offspring based on their intended purposes. Our technology which enables you to sex-sort every stallion's semen, would represent a breakthrough in the industry by combining accessibility and affordability with technological precision.
NON INVASIVE PRENATAL TESTING (NIPT)
EquiVita Genetics is committed to technological innovations that are both practical and easy to use. Many mare owners are eager to know the sex of their future star and rely on veterinarians to perform ultrasound scans. However, this procedure can be complex and challenging for the veterinarian.
EquiVita Genetics aims to simplify this cumbersome technique by replacing it with a simple blood test. Why make things complicated when they can be made easy?
With just
a routine blood sample collected in a purple EDTA tube,
EquiVita Genetics can determine the sex of your foal as from six months into pregnancy.
Team
EquiVita Genetics is driven by a passionate and multidisciplinary team, combining expertise from both equine and human reproductive sciences.
- Charlotte Vertessen –
Managing Director & Equine Specialist
With hands-on experience at a horse breeding farm, Charlotte has in-depth knowledge of equine reproduction. She serves as the vital link between EquiVita Genetics and the equestrian world, ensuring that the company’s innovations align with industry needs. As the current manager, she oversees daily operations and strategic direction. - Viktor-Jan Vertessen –
Scientific Director & Fertility Expert
A gynecologist by profession, Viktor-Jan is the scientific mastermind behind the team. He bridges advanced techniques from human fertility with equine reproduction, driving research and development with his deep medical expertise. - Raùl Ramos Pupo –
Laboratory Researcher & Innovator
As the company’s dedicated laboratory specialist, Raùl conducts all research and experimental procedures. He applies creativity and precision in developing and testing new ideas, playing a crucial role in the company’s scientific advancements. - Koen Goyens –
Investor & Strategic Advisor
With a strong background in human medicine and business, Koen provides invaluable guidance to the team. His expertise ensures that EquiVita Genetics remains at the forefront of both scientific innovation and commercial viability.
Together, this dynamic team is pioneering groundbreaking reproductive technologies, shaping the future of equine breeding with scientific excellence and practical solutions.
Job opportunity
We are currently searching for a R&D MANAGER to join our team!
Are you an innovative thinker with a passion for scientific research and product development? Do you thrive in an environment where you can work independently while making a significant impact? We are looking for a Research & Development Manager to lead our efforts in developing groundbreaking new products.
Your role
As our R&D Manager, you will be at the forefront of innovation, driving the development of cutting-edge products. You will have the freedom to explore new ideas, think outside the box, and push the boundaries of scientific advancements. Your ability to work autonomously and take initiative will be key to success in this role.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead research and development projects from concept to completion
- Develop and execute R&D strategies aligned with company goals
- Innovate and improve existing products through scientific research
- Stay up-to-date with industry trends and emerging technologies
- Ensure compliance with regulations and quality standards
- Manage budgets and resources efficiently
Your profile
- A highly motivated individual with a strong scientific background
- Able to work independently and take ownership of R&D initiatives
- Passionate about innovation and eager to develop new products
- A creative problem-solver who thinks outside the box
- An excellent communicator and collaborator
Requirements
- A degree in a relevant scientific or engineering discipline (Master’s or Ph.D. preferred)
- Proven experience in research and development, ideally in reproduction techniques
- Strong analytical skills and the ability to translate research into practical applications
- Knowledge of relevant regulations and industry standards
- Experience in project management and leadership
What we offer
- A dynamic and innovative work environment
- The freedom to explore and implement new ideas
- Competitive salary and benefits package
- Opportunities for professional growth and development
- A chance to make a real impact in a forward-thinking company
Are you ready to take on this exciting challenge? We’d love to hear from you! Apply now and be a part of our innovative journey.
Apply via : charlotte@equivita-genetics.com or +32472/715905 !
What do we do?
Semen analysis
There may be a lot of causes to a bad fertility of a stallion. Together with our team, we assist in the stable management, collection and processing of the semen and the elaborated quality analysis of a semen sample via CASA and our specialised vet.
Sex determination by NIPT Test
It's not only applicable for humans anymore ! We invented the non-invasive prenatal test (NIPT) also
for mares as of 4 months gestation.
We are able to determine the sex of
the foal by a simple blood sample.
Sex sorting
We are currently developing a technique to sort the sex via the semen of the stallion.
The mare owner may choose the desired sex of their foal.
Want to contribute?
As we our still developing our processes,
we are looking for :
- Fresh blood samples of pregnant mares
- Fresh semen samples
Contact us if you would like to participate in our latest projects !