The mission of the Belgian Inflammatory Bowel Disease Research and Development Group (BIRD) is to stimulate research in the field of Inflammatory Bowel disease (IBD).

The BIRD group furthermore wants to improve clinical and scientific knowledge about the disease between gastroenterologists. By performing original epidemiological and clinical studies, we want to be at the forefront of improving existing therapies, and providing the best care to IBD patients. We want to advance the current understanding on the pathogenesis of the disease and we have a strong commitment to support young clinicians and/or researchers through scientific grants.

The contribution of the Belgium IBD genetic consortium (within the BIRD) to the understanding of the genetics of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)  has been quite significant over the years with the publication of several landmark studies. Multiple research projects are currently being carried out thanks to the enthusiasm of many IBD gastroenterologists across Belgium. The BIRD is representative of the National union of IBD Gastrenterologists in the fight against Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.