"Drive the Future of Dutch Chemistry with Selfless Leadership"
In July, I had the absolute pleasure to attend the "KNCV – NextGen Leaders in Dutch Chemistry Summit". Here, we had in-depth discussions on Leadership as well as the current state and the future of Chemistry in the Netherlands. (1/11)
Now, we present the White Paper based on the discussions that we had during this event between 26 emerging chemistry PIs. I encourage you to read the full White Paper to learn about this group's perspective on these and many other topics: (2/11)
nextgenchemleaders.nl/wp-content/u...nextgenchemleaders.nl/wp-content/upl...I want to highlight a few points that are made throughout the White Paper. This is surely a personally biased overview, but hopefully gives some key insights. (3/11)
The White Paper highlights the importance of reliable funding for fundamental and translational research in Academia. It states that we need "a funding landscape that supports both fundamental scientific discovery and its translation into real-world applications within a long-term vision." (4/11)
Furthermore, "sustained investment is essential, not only to maintain scientific excellence but also to ensure a robust and continuous pipeline of knowledge, technologies, and skilled researchers." (5/11)
It furthermore underpins the value of fundamental research: "Fundamental chemical research delivers value on two interconnected fronts: i) Knowledge Creation: exploratory, often high-risk research uncovers the fundamental principles that later underpin scientific breakthroughs..." (6/11)
"... ii) Talent Formation: training (...) equips researchers with advanced problem-solving skills, data-driven mindsets (...) and an innovation culture that diffuses into Dutch chemical sector." (7/11)
This is where we identified one of the key strengths of Dutch universities: "Universities are uniquely positioned to create knowledge and innovations that shape society." (8/11)
Another point that is brought up is the importance of communicating the power of science to the broader public: "Science communication (...is...) crucial for addressing the impending shortage of new talent entering in chemistry". (9/11)
Stephan Hacker