Feature articles
Fungal powder to feed the world
Fermentation has a positive ecological footprint. Dutch start-up The Protein Brewery uses this process to ‘brew’ a fungus that is a highly nutritious, complete source of protein. ‘We are becoming more aware that animal proteins alone are insufficient.’
Silky smooth transition from bachelor to PhD
After completing two bachelor’s degrees in Spain, Cristina Izquierdo Lozano bypassed the master’s degree-route and started her PhD research at Eindhoven University of Technology. Her pursuit of new acquaintances led her to take up aerial silks.
‘Breakthroughs in science emerge bottom-up’
Multidisciplinary research is one those buzzwords that pop up everywhere. But creating an environment where scientists are eager to share their expertise requires more than mere lip service, says ICMS scientific director Jan van Hest. ‘Multidisciplinarity is not just a box to be ticked, but it is an absolute prerequisite ...
The scientist’s eyes
Studying nanostructures at near-atomic resolution is the bread and butter of the ICMS Center for Multiscale Electron Microscopy. Here, Heiner Friedrich and his team are continuously improving these already advanced techniques to provide an even more accurate view with minimal noise and high throughput.
The matchmaking concierge
Creating a stimulating, mutually beneficial interaction between science and industry is the priority of the ICMS Industrial Consortium. ‘We try to meet the needs of all participants: ICMS, university faculty, industry and start-ups.’
Wealth
While pondering the wonders of the material world, Editor-in-chief Esther Thole is immediately thrown back to an 80s classic featuring a superstar in a pink gown.
Open doors and shared labs
Research at the Institute for Complex Molecular Systems requires input from multiple disciplines. Therefore, knowledge exchange and collaboration are a top priority. Connecting people and multidisciplinary projects are essentials. Daily practice teaches that meetings at the central coffee machine are as important for science, as is a warm ‘we culture’.
There’s business in sweat harvesting
Sweat can easily perceived as a nuisance, but start-up DXcrete is developing a device to collect as much sweat from the skin as possible. Analysis of this essential body fluid offers a non-invasive way to monitor vital organs as sweat contains many relevant biomarkers. This could result in tools that ...
Putting the ‘Super’ into advanced microscopy
Super Resolution Microscopy opened our eyes to biological processes on scales previously hidden from view. At ICMS, researchers keep pushing the limits of SRM and expanding the technique’s possibilities. For those who think this is just another lab tool, think again. The ICMS infrastructure for research and innovation makes sure it’s finding its way into real life applications.
Injecting biology into computing
When it comes the bio-inspired materials for computing, the possibilities are endless. ICMS members Tom de Greef and Yoeri van de Burgt are on the forefront of developing new materials for data storage and processing.
Adaptive materials keep you guessing
With their research into adaptive materials, ICMS-researchers want to bring science fiction-like materials to life. ‘We cannot yet grasp every possibility.’
Protecting your focus time in academia
Between endless emails, meetings, and administrative tasks, finding time for deep work has become increasingly difficult in academic life. In her final column of the year, Isabelle Kohler shares the strategies she’s developed to protect time for the work that truly fulfills her: writing, reading, and thinking.
Chemistry set
A chemistry set for children seems like a perfect gift. But when Sjoerd Rijpkema got one himself, he was met with an unpleasant surprise.
Protecting crops with sugar molecules
How can we ensure that pesticides used in agriculture are both effective and safe? Ghent-based start-up B-COS hopes to provide part of the solution with chitooligosaccharides, which are produced by bacteria. These carbohydrate-like substances act as a vaccine, boosting the plant’s immune system.
Should you quit your PhD?
‘Should I quit my PhD?’ is a question many doctoral students face but few dare to voice. In her column, Isabelle Kohler explores why this decision feels so taboo, reflects on her own moments of doubts as a PhD student, and offers practical support for anyone wrestling with this question.
The Antwerp renaissance of the plastics sector
Newcomer Vioneo plans to produce plastics from green methanol on a large scale in Antwerp. The strict environmental regulations in Europe are actually an advantage. ‘It supports our business case.’
Exploring what’s next: 10 tips for early-career researchers shaping their career path
PhD students and postdocs highly specialise in research and scientific expertise. Something that’s often lacking is looking forward to career options. In this special edition of Exploring Academia, Isabelle Kohler presents ten tips to help you take actionable steps towards your career preparation.
Will you become a researcher or an AI user?
Generative artificial intelligence (AI) has transformed the world in just three years. Isabelle Kohler ponders this rapid transformation and questions whether the focus on output in academia risks undermining the core purpose of PhD training. She argues that PhD students should develop skills and expertise, not just deliver results, and ...
An Evening of Chemistry
Sjoerd Rijpkema loves the Avond van de Chemie (Evening of Chemistry). Not necessarily for the brilliant contributions, but for the delightful awkwardness.
Dealing with a disability in academia
Isabelle Kohler reflects on her own experience navigating health challenges while building an academic career, the crucial role of supportive supervisors and colleagues, and how both students and teachers can foster a more inclusive and understanding academic environment.
