These scientists will lead the Science strategic research themes
Six researchers have been appointed as theme leaders for the profiling themes of the Faculty of Science for a duration of two years. Who are they and what will they be doing?
During the New Year's reception, Dean Jasper Knoester announced the theme leaders for the faculty's research themes. These themes have been set out in the faculty's strategic plan and the theme leaders are the driving force behind them.
These researchers will lead the faculty themes:
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Biodiversity: To be announced shortly
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Complex Networks: Michel Mandjes (MI)
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Sustainability: René Kleijn (CML)
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Artificial Intelligence (AI): Aske Plaat (LIACS)
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Drug Development and Discovery: Mario van der Stelt (LIC)
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Quantum & Space: Bas Hensen (LION) & Sebastiaan Haffert (STRW)
During the New Year's reception, Knoester emphasised the potential of the themes for social impact and attracting funding. ‘As the faculty board, we are very grateful to these people,’ he said. ‘For their vision and their willingness to devote their scarce time to leading a theme.’ He acknowledged that they would have preferred to see a more diverse group, but he is pleased that the profiling themes can now really kick off.
Research with societal relevance
The six themes showcase our faculty's areas of expertise. These themes connect different disciplines, ánd connect to the outside world. They transcend disciplinary boundaries and are relevant to social issues.
The theme leaders are appointed for a period of two years. As ambassadors for their field, they put Leiden on the map. They are the public face of the faculty and maintain contact with important partners. They also seek to establish connections between institutes and faculties. Of course, they won't do this alone. The theme leaders ensure the division of roles internally within their theme and involve academic staff in their plans.