# List of research institutes in Flanders
Tamtam tracks 31 research institutes headquartered in Flanders. This list ranks all of them by number of employees on LinkedIn, led by KU Leuven, Ghent University and University of Antwerp. Their median headcount is 439. Half of them were founded in 1990 or later. The most common headquarters are Leuven (4), Antwerp (3) and Ghent (3).
The research institutes in Flanders are primarily universities and science-focused organizations. This list includes established institutions like KU Leuven, a multidisciplinary university founded in 1425, and Ghent University, offering diverse courses and conducting extensive research. It also features specialized entities such as imec, innovating in nano- and digital technology, and VIB, which conducts basic research into molecular mechanisms.
A notable pattern among these organizations is their concentration in specific cities, with Leuven, Ghent, and Antwerp being prominent locations. Many of these institutions, such as the University of Antwerp and Thomas More University of Applied Sciences, were founded more recently, in the early 21st century, indicating a continuous development in the region's research landscape.
๐ง๐ช Flanders ยท 31 companies ยท Updated Nov 12, 2026
| # | Company | Industry | Headquarters | Employees | Founded |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | [KU Leuven](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/ku-leuven) (kuleuven.be)
A multidisciplinary university founded in 1425, offering research-driven education and being Belgium's largest and one of Europe's most renowned universities | Research Services | ๐ง๐ช Leuven | 14,935 | 1425 |
| 2 | [Ghent University](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/ghent-university) (ugent.be)
Offers diverse courses and conducts extensive research across multiple scientific fields, welcoming students from all backgrounds. | Higher Education | ๐ง๐ช Ghent | 11,347 | 1817 |
| 3 | [University of Antwerp](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/university-of-antwerp) (uantwerpen.be)
Offers bachelor and master programs, conducts competitive research, supports doctoral studies, and fosters student-centered, competency-based education. | Research Services | ๐ง๐ช Antwerp | 5,488 | 2003 |
| 4 | [imec](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/imec) (imec-int.com)
Innovates nano- and digital technology with global partners to create advanced solutions in healthcare, clean energy, and Industry 40 Shapes future | Research Services | ๐ง๐ช Leuven | 4,867 | 1984 |
| 5 | [Thomas More University of Applied Sciences](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/thomas-more-university-of-applied-sciences) (thomasmore.be)
Largest university of applied sciences in Flanders offering a range of bachelor's degree and postgraduate programs in English and Dutch | Higher Education | ๐ง๐ช Mechelen | 2,855 | 2012 |
| 6 | [Hasselt University](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/hasselt-university-hasselt) (uhasselt.be)
Dynamic university offering interactive education, fostering critical thinking, conducting innovative research, and supporting regional and international collaboration for sustainable development. | Higher Education | ๐ง๐ช Hasselt | 2,297 | 1973 |
| 7 | [VIB](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/vib) (vib.be)
Conducts pioneering basic research to generate insights into molecular mechanisms, translating them into innovations for patients, society, and agriculture | Research Services | ๐ง๐ช Ghent | 1,772 | 1995 |
| 8 | [VITO](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/vito) (vito.be)
Independent research organization advancing cleantech, sustainable development, energy transition, circular economy, healthcare innovation, and sustainable use of space and water | Research Services | ๐ง๐ช Mol | 1,388 | 1991 |
| 9 | [Thomas More](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/thomas-more) (thomasmore.be)
Leading educational institution offering a wide range of bachelor and associate programs to over 17,000 students in various locations, serving as a key partner for businesses and organizations | Education Administration Programs | ๐ง๐ช Mechelen | 1,033 | 2012 |
| 10 | [Hasselt University](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/hasselt-university) (uhasselt.be)
An independent university with a global focus, specializing in education, cutting-edge research, and fostering innovation and entrepreneurship through interdisciplinary research and technology transfer | Research Services | ๐ง๐ช Hasselt | 951 | 1973 |
| 11 | [SCK CEN](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/sck-cen) (sckcen.be)
A global leader in nuclear research, services, and education, focusing on six research topics to develop innovative applications for society's benefit | Research Services | ๐ง๐ช Mol | 889 | 1952 |
| 12 | [HOWEST University of Applied Sciences](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/howest-university-of-applied-sciences) (howest.be)
Applied sciences university offering multidisciplinary, practice-based education, research, and community service with strong industry collaboration and innovative programs. | Higher Education | ๐ง๐ช Kortrijk | 787 | 1995 |
| 13 | [HOWEST Hogeschool West-Vlaanderen](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/howest-hogeschool-west-vlaanderen) (howest.be)
A forward-thinking university offering diverse programs, focusing on practical education, research, and innovation to prepare students as competitive professionals | Higher Education | ๐ง๐ช Kortrijk | 663 | 1995 |
| 14 | [Institute of Tropical Medicine Antwerp](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/institute-of-tropical-medicine-antwerp) (itg.be)
A leading institute in Antwerp, Belgium specializing in training, research, and assistance in tropical medicine and healthcare for developing countries | Research Services | ๐ง๐ช Antwerp | 625 | 1906 |
| 15 | [ILVO (Instituut voor Landbouw, Visserij- en Voedingsonderzoek)](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/ilvo-instituut-voor-landbouw-visserij-en-voedingsonderzoek) (ilvo.vlaanderen.be)
A research institute focused on sustainable agriculture, fisheries, and food processing, conducting policy-supportive scientific research to improve products and policy instruments | Research Services | ๐ง๐ช Merelbeke | 576 | |
| 16 | [Buildwise](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/buildwise) (buildwise.be)
Founded by and for the construction industry, we aim to improve quality, productivity, and sustainability while fostering innovation in construction projects and companies | Construction | ๐ง๐ช Zaventem | 439 | 1960 |
| 17 | [Flanders Make](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/flanders-make) (flandersmake.be)
Strategic research center driving open innovation, custom innovation trajectories, and testing infrastructure for manufacturing industry, contributing to future technological advancements | Research Services | ๐ง๐ช Lommel | 325 | 2014 |
| 18 | [Faculty of Veterinary Medicine - Ghent University](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/faculty-of-veterinary-medicine-ghent-university) (ugent.be)
Training future veterinarians, operating the largest national animal hospital, and conducting leading veterinary research with global recognition. | Research Services | ๐ง๐ช Merelbeke | 306 | 1933 |
| 19 | [KMDA vzw](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/kmda-vzw) (zooantwerpen.be)
A society founded in 1843 managing four institutions, a nature reserve, and a concert venue, attracting over 2 million visitors annually Prominent in research and conservation | Travel Arrangements | ๐ง๐ช Antwerp | 301 | 1843 |
| 20 | [KU Leuven - Group T Leuven Campus](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/ku-leuven-group-t-leuven-campus) (kuleuven.be)
Engineering education combining technical expertise with creativity, entrepreneurial skills, and holistic understanding of interconnected natural, cultural, and societal systems. | Research Services | ๐ง๐ช Leuven | 190 | 1961 |
| 21 | [Centexbel](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/centexbel) (centexbel.be)
Provides textile manufacturers with technological innovation support, specialized testing, certification, and research services to enhance industrial competitiveness through sustainable development and expert consultancy. | Textile Manufacturing | ๐ง๐ช Zwijnaarde | 182 | 1950 |
| 22 | [OCAS NV](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/ocas-nv) (ocas.be)
Advanced research center providing steel products and solutions globally, developing alloys, coatings, and applications with state-of-the-art facilities and expert team | Research Services | ๐ง๐ช Zelzate | 116 | 1991 |
| 23 | [Laboratory of Food Chemistry and Biochemistry KU Leuven](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/laboratory-of-food-chemistry-and-biochemistry-ku-leuven) (biw.kuleuven.be)
A research laboratory focusing on food chemistry and biochemistry, specializing in cereals, to improve product quality and create value through collaborations and innovation | Research Services | ๐ง๐ช Heverlee | 43 | |
| 24 | [imo-imomec](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/imo-imomec) (uhasselt.be)
A joint research institute conducting pioneering materials research for energy, healthcare, and quantum technologies, offering scientific services and collaboration with industry | Research Services | ๐ง๐ช Diepenbeek | 42 | 1990 |
| 25 | [De Blauwe Cluster (Blue Cluster)](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/de-blauwe-cluster-blue-cluster) (bluecluster.be)
Blue Cluster is a group of innovative private companies focused on developing and promoting economic activities related to the sea | Research Services | ๐ง๐ช Ostend | 27 | 2017 |
| 26 | [RADar Learning & innovation Centre AZ Delta](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/radar-learning-and-innovation-centre-az-delta)
A learning and innovation center that focuses on research, clinical studies, data-driven projects, learning & development, and events & branding in healthcare | Hospitals and Health Care | ๐ง๐ช Rumbeke | 19 | 2020 |
| 27 | [KU Leuven Additive Manufacturing Institute](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/ku-leuven-additive-manufacturing-institute) (set.kuleuven.be)
Pioneering in Additive Manufacturing (AM) since 1990, focusing on polymer and metal parts production, process optimization, and research advancements | Research Services | ๐ง๐ช Heverlee | 16 | 1990 |
| 28 | [Strategic Initiative Materials (SIM)](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/strategic-initiative-materials-sim) (sim-flanders.be)
Non-profit virtual research center in Flanders focusing on precompetitive materials research, collaboration between industry and academia, and innovative technology platforms | Research Services | ๐ง๐ช Ghent | 10 | |
| 29 | [Institute for Orthopaedic Research and Training (IORT)](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/institute-for-orthopaedic-research-and-training-iort) (gbiomed.kuleuven.be)
Facilitating innovative orthopaedic research, managing clinical trials, and providing surgical training to improve understanding and practice in orthopaedics Offering research and training opportunities | Hospitals and Health Care | ๐ง๐ช Leuven | 8 | |
| 30 | [Sustainable Materials Lab](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/sustainable-materials-lab) (kulak.kuleuven.be)
Fundamental and applied research developing nanomaterials from sustainable resources and recycled petroleum polymers through chemistry, chemical engineering, and materials science characterization. | Research Services | ๐ง๐ช Kortrijk | 6 | 2013 |
| 31 | [Materials and Packaging Research & Services](https://www.tamtam.ai/c/materials-and-packaging-research-and-services) (uhasselt.be)
The company provides modern characterization and testing techniques for scientific research on materials and packaging, collaborating with research groups and institutions for innovative solutions | Research Services | ๐ง๐ช Diepenbeek | 5 | 1997 |
## How this list is built
Every company on this list has a Tamtam company profile. The industry is the one the company gives on LinkedIn; categories such as SaaS or fintech are classified by Tamtam's AI from the company's website and LinkedIn page; and the headquarters city must match the company's own address. Companies are ranked by the number of employees on LinkedIn, and the list is refreshed every night. Classifications can be wrong, so treat the list as a starting point rather than an official ranking. Last updated Nov 12, 2026.
## More company lists in Flanders
- [The largest companies in Flanders](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/largest-companies-flanders) (4,222)
- [Multinational companies in Flanders](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/multinational-companies-flanders) (1,023)
- [Manufacturers in Flanders](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/manufacturers-flanders) (415)
- [Retail chains in Flanders](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/retail-chains-flanders) (370)
- [IT services companies in Flanders](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/it-services-companies-flanders) (367)
- [IT Services and IT Consulting companies in Flanders](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/it-services-and-it-consulting-companies-flanders) (356)
- [Companies with in-house R&D in Flanders](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/r-and-d-companies-flanders) (352)
- [Transportation, Logistics, Supply Chain and Storage companies in Flanders](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/transportation-logistics-supply-chain-and-storage-companies-flanders) (313)
- [Family-owned companies in Flanders](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/family-owned-companies-flanders) (310)
- [Software Development companies in Flanders](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/software-development-companies-flanders) (287)
- [SaaS companies in Flanders](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/saas-companies-flanders) (265)
- [Professional services firms in Flanders](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/professional-services-firms-flanders) (263)
- [Distributors and wholesalers in Flanders](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/distributors-and-wholesalers-flanders) (246)
- [Hardware manufacturers in Flanders](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/hardware-companies-flanders) (213)
- [Truck Transportation companies in Flanders](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/truck-transportation-companies-flanders) (205)
- [Logistics companies in Flanders](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/logistics-companies-flanders) (202)
- [Critical infrastructure operators in Flanders](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/critical-infrastructure-operators-flanders) (183)
- [Retail companies in Flanders](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/retail-companies-flanders) (182)
- [Food and Beverage Manufacturing companies in Flanders](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/food-and-beverage-manufacturing-companies-flanders) (175)
- [Consulting firms in Flanders](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/consulting-firms-flanders) (172)
- [E-commerce companies in Flanders](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/ecommerce-companies-flanders) (145)
- [Advertising Services companies in Flanders](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/advertising-services-companies-flanders) (137)
- [Food and beverage companies in Flanders](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/food-and-beverage-companies-flanders) (131)
- [Financial services firms in Flanders](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/financial-services-firms-flanders) (128)
## The same list elsewhere in Belgium
- [Research institutes in Belgium](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/research-institutes-belgium) (80)
## The same list elsewhere
- [Research institutes in the world](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/research-institutes-in-the-world) (5,686)
- [Research institutes in Europe](https://www.tamtam.ai/l/research-institutes-in-europe) (2,713)
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Source: https://www.tamtam.ai/l/research-institutes-flanders