Testimonials

Programme

Chemistry

Study start date

01 September 2021

Study end date

01 September 2024

Student Noël René Schneider is following the Bachelor's programme in Chemistry at Radboud University.

Why did you choose Radboud University?

The contact I had with Radboud University was always really pleasant. All my questions were consistently answered in detail. I also found the number of courses and research departments very impressive.

How did you experience the transition from high school to university? How did the university/programme assist you with this transition?

With the pre-course mathematics and the guidance from secondary school teachers during our first academic year, I experienced no problems at all with the transition from secondary school to university.

What do you like about the Bachelor's programme and why? How has the programme challenged you?

The Bachelor's programme offers a vast number of courses covering all the key areas of chemistry. This means you'll find something truly interesting every period. Moreover, the chemistry programme includes many lab sessions, making it possible to see and learn the theory in practice as well.

What do you think about the atmosphere in class? 

There's a really good atmosphere within the chemistry programme. Everyone helps each other and we work together during the tutorials, but also whilst preparing for our exams. The lecturers are also always approachable via email or in their office. I've never felt like I shouldn't ask a question, because all the lecturers are always very kind and helpful.

What are your plans once you have received your Bachelor’s degree?

Once I have my Bachelor's diploma, I'll start my Master's programme in Molecular Chemistry. After that, if possible, I'd like to obtain a PhD.

Are you involved with the study association of your programme? If so, in what way?

I'm not particularly active within the student association (Sigma), but I am active within the Nijmegen Honours Student Association (NSHV).

What do you like about Nijmegen?

Nijmegen is truly a beautiful place. The city is large enough to have everything you could want: restaurants, clubs, sports, parks and even a beach! At the same time, Nijmegen isn't as busy as larger cities, so the atmosphere is always a bit more relaxed.

Did you visit any information meetings at the campus before you signed up for your studies? Did you find them useful and why?

Since I went to secondary school in Germany, I didn't physically attend information activities. At the moment, I am present during these activities to represent my programme. And I always find it really enjoyable, interesting and fun!

What would you advise students when choosing a study programme?

Choose your studies based on what you find interesting. I've learnt that if you're genuinely enthusiastic about your studies, if there's a passion for chemistry (or something else), you'll complete the programme - even if you want to study something that wasn't your best subject at secondary school.
 

It seems like a dream, but Wilhelm Huck firmly believes in it: a robot lab that combines chemistry and artificial intelligence (AI) to develop materials of the future. Huck is professor of physical-organic chemistry at the Institute for Molecules and Materials of Radboud University Nijmegen. He has received a contribution of 97 million euros from the government's National Growth Fund to realise the scientific programme Robotlab: the revolution of self-thinking molecular systems.

If we no longer want to use materials from the fossil industry, to reduce CO2 emissions, then new materials will have to be developed as quickly as possible, argues Wilhelm Huck. As a professor of physical-organic chemistry, he knows that there are an infinite number of combinations of molecules that can be made. More than people can imagine.

“In addition, we simply don't have the time to try everything out,” Huck argues. “That is why we need artificial intelligence to develop new, sustainable materials, but also paints, coatings without PFAS and medicines.”

First self-governing lab in the world

With the scientific research programme Robotlab: the revolution of self-thinking molecular systems, the professor expects to take a big step in the right direction. Together with other scientific partners and the business community, initiator Huck is working on building the first fully automated robot lab that can devise complex molecular systems.

By combining chemistry and high technology, such as robotics and artificial intelligence (big data and self-learning systems), such a self-governing lab is created. Such a lab can come up with solutions to complex questions much faster than humans.

“We humans have to formulate the problem, the robot lab works out the solution that we can then refine,” Huck explains. He emphasises that a huge acceleration of scientific research is needed to find answers to the questions we face due to the climate crisis.

Materials transition

The energy transition is just the start of all kinds of changes, the professor emphasises. 'We are at the beginning of a huge transition, in addition to the energy transition, there will also be a materials transition. Just think about what is made of plastic. Plastics are made from building blocks from the fossil industry, such as the oil industry. If we want to replace plastics, we have to use other combinations of molecules, other building blocks.'

Nijmegen, Eindhoven, Groningen

The robot lab is being developed by Radboud University Nijmegen in collaboration with the University of Groningen, the Eindhoven University of Technology, the research institute AMOLF in Amsterdam and the Fontys University of Applied Sciences in Eindhoven.

After a period of preparation, the real work begins. “The first people have been hired and we are in the process of purchasing our first robot,” Huck reports. He is scientific director of the Big Chemistry foundation, which carries out the research programme Robotlab: the revolution of self-thinking molecular systems.

The aim of the research programme is to develop a fully automated laboratory, a robot lab, within seven years, complete with a network of supply companies.

The development of these economic activities is a condition for the subsidy from the National Growth Fund. The wish is to build the robot lab on the Novio Tech Campus in Nijmegen.

Train AI 

Scientists involved in the robot lab will initially work on training artificial intelligence systems. “We must first provide AI with the necessary chemical knowledge before you can use it,” says Huck.

"AI currently knows which molecules to make, but not yet how to combine them in such a way that they lead to solutions. We still have to make a lot of data available and do experiments."

Radically different: Big Chemistry

For example, the robot lab can contribute to the development of sustainable products for the paint industry, pharmaceuticals and the food industry.

The advantage of the lab is that it enables developments that are based more on big data and systematic analysis and less on intuition and trial and error, as is now common.

"It's super exciting. We are going to do everything radically different and call it Big Chemistry,” says Huck. "We are working on co-creation, where humans and computers work together in a new way. This way we can work faster and better on scientific breakthroughs."

The interview first appeared on TechGelderland. Photos: Linda Verweij

Daniel Blanco Ania is researcher at Radboud University.

Can you introduce yourself?

I am an accomplished educator and researcher in the field of organic chemistry. I earned my Master’s degree from the Autonomous University of Madrid before completing my Ph.D. at Radboud University in Nijmegen. With two decades of teaching experience, I am a dedicated professor and I share my expertise through a range of Bachelor and Master's level courses, including Stereoselective Synthesis, Essentials of Organic Chemistry, Sustainable Chemistry, and Advanced Organic Synthesis.

Beyond academia, I collaborate with the pharmaceutical industry, teaching specialised courses in organic chemistry at Symeres and AcertaPharma. My work reflects a deep commitment to advancing both education and the practical application of organic chemistry in innovative and sustainable ways

Why did you choose to study/work in this field? What makes this field so interesting?

My passion for organic chemistry is rooted in its extraordinary ability to transform the building blocks of nature (the molecules found in biomass and crude oil) into new drugs and materials for the benefit of human kind. To me, organic chemistry is more than a science—it is an art form.

What are you currently doing your own research on?

I am currently working on mechanochemistry: my group is trying to synthesise commercially available drugs without using solvents for their production. Solvents contribute enormously to the pollution of the environment.

What advice do you have for students making their study choice?

Follow your passion in your studies—it’s the best decision you’ll ever make. When you truly enjoy what you’re learning, it stops feeling like studying. Instead, it becomes a form of play—a chance to explore, create, and grow while doing something that excites and inspires you. There’s nothing more rewarding than waking up every day eager to dive into what you love. So trust your instincts, pursue what lights up your curiosity, and let your passion guide you to a fulfilling and joyful future.

What is the best part of being a lecturer?

The best part of being a lecturer is that you can contribute your bit to change the world. I consider myself a dreamer, firmly believing that the future of any society lies in the hands of its children and young people. Consequently, their knowledge, preparation, performance, and motivation are crucial factors that will shape the well-being of society in the years to come. I am deeply committed to being a driving force behind this change, contributing to the development and empowerment of future generations through education.

Programme

Chemistry

When Davey Boss started his Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry at Radboud University, he could never have predicted that he would end up in chip technology. What began as an interest in materials science developed into a career at NXP Semiconductors, where he now works as a project manager on radar products for the automotive sector. His story shows how broad scientific interests and practical experience can lead to surprising career paths.

Applied research

During his studies, Boss discovered that he found more satisfaction in applied research than in pure chemical synthesis. “With synthesis, it sometimes felt like you were at the mercy of factors beyond your control. Materials science appealed to me more because of its tangible applications and the direct link to industry,” he explains. His interest was further sparked by the course Condensed Matter Lab, where he gained hands-on experience with materials and their properties.

This led him to the Material Science course, taught by Dr. John Schermer. During one of the lectures, Schermer mentioned there was still an internship position available within his Applied Materials Science research group at the Institute for Molecules and Materials (IMM) within Radboud University’s Faculty of Science. “That immediately sounded interesting, so I reached out,” says Boss. This internship gave him the chance to work on innovative LED technologies, a project in which he learned how LED lights can be used for cooling purposes. “It was a completely new concept to me, and there was a lot of independent exploration involved. That made it all the more fascinating.”

The step to NXP

His next step was an internship at NXP, an opportunity that arose through conversations with his supervisors and fellow students. “John knew I was interested in an industrial internship and suggested I contact NXP. Through another student already interning there, I gained more insight into the possibilities,” he explains. Eventually, he was invited for meetings with various group leaders in NXP’s physical analysis lab. “I was given a tour and could choose the project that suited me best. I really appreciated that freedom.”

At NXP, Boss worked with electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD), a technique for analyzing the crystalline structure of materials. “The tool was already there, but it hadn’t been widely used for new applications yet. My task was to develop reliable sample preparation methods without causing unnecessary damage to the material. EBSD is extremely sensitive to even the smallest defects, which can not only affect measurement data but also the performance of chips.”

An internship with impact

What Boss particularly valued during his time at NXP was the diversity of collaboration. “You work with technicians who’ve been in the field for forty years, but also with PhD students who oversee the bigger picture. That combination was very educational,” he says. He also realized how important it is to take initiative. “Everyone at NXP is busy with their own projects. As an intern, you have to proactively reach out to the right people and ask questions. That taught me to be proactive and communicate effectively.”

His experience in chip technology opened his eyes to the complexity of the sector. “Before I worked here, when I thought of chips, I mainly thought about the chemistry behind how they’re made. But there’s so much more to it. From packaging and protection against external factors like moisture, to electrical testing and reliability – it’s a highly multidisciplinary field.”

From internship to full-time job

After his internship, Boss was offered a job at NXP. Since November, he has been working as a project manager on radar products for the automotive sector, focusing on back-end processes. He coordinates the packaging of semiconductors, ensuring that chips are protected and connected to their environment, such as circuit boards or devices. This requires careful coordination regarding reliability and electrical connections. “What I like about NXP is that you’re encouraged to contribute ideas and innovate. Different disciplines come together here: chemistry, physics, mechanical engineering, and electrical engineering. That makes the work very dynamic.”

Health & High Tech in Nijmegen

Boss’s career move fits within the broader ambitions of the Nijmegen region in the field of Health & High Tech. Project Beethoven, an initiative focused on talent development in the semiconductor industry, aligns with this. NXP actively collaborates with universities and research institutes to attract talent and stimulate innovation. “It’s important that we invest in the future of chip technology, because it forms the foundation for innovation and economic growth in an increasingly digital world,” says Boss.

Sustainability is another current theme in the sector. “NXP works together with universities and other companies to develop more environmentally friendly production processes,” Boss explains. A good example of this collaboration is the NWO Circular Circuits program, which focuses on reducing chip waste (e-waste) by using more efficient and sustainable materials and promoting material reuse. With companies like NXP, Nexperia and CITC located on the Noviotech campus and the Applied Materials Science group from Radboud University, Nijmegen is strongly represented in this program. The ambition is to further expand this ongoing collaboration as part of the ChipNL innovation program. The proposal for this program, prepared by 64 companies and (knowledge) organizations in the Dutch chip industry, was recently submitted to Minister Micky Adriaansens of Economic Affairs.

Advice for students

Boss encourages current students to actively seek out opportunities in chip technology. “Dive into the sector and try to figure out which aspects you find most interesting. Networking is crucial in that process. Don’t be afraid to contact a company directly with a well-thought-out idea or interest in an internship.” According to Boss, an open attitude and willingness to seize opportunities are essential. “As a student, it can feel like a big step to reach out to companies. But my advice is: just do it. Send that email, ask those questions, and explore what’s out there. The semiconductor industry needs talent, and there are so many opportunities.”

This article (short version) has been published in the Magazine Kijk op Arnhem-Nijmegen 2-2025 - Kijk op Arnhem-Nijmegen (p.42-43)

Programme

Chemistry

Substances of Very High Concern (SVHCs) are the most dangerous substances for humans and the environment. They are carcinogenic, hinder reproduction, or accumulate in the food chain. Start-up Deconcern in Nijmegen has designed a tool to identify these culprits. And hopefully, in time, to eliminate them from the world. Former Chemistry student Robin Burgers co-founded Deconcern with Mick Geerits in 2022.

Legislation evolves

Legally, companies must avoid discharges and emissions of SVHCs into the air, water, and soil. If this is not possible, the discharge must be minimised as much as possible.

"In the Netherlands, more than 350,000 companies work with thousands of dangerous chemical substances. The legislation in this area is evolving, so more and more substances are being added to the SVHC list. The 29 Environmental Services in our country ensure supervision and enforcement of this," outlines Burgers.

Inspections by sampling

These regional inspections are conducted on a sampling basis, as the services do not have enough people and resources to visit every company. Moreover, manually administering and updating all those substances is impractical.

Burgers speaks from experience: "At the beginning of 2021, I was faced with the task of checking over three thousand raw materials and products, each with multiple ingredients. It was a Herculean task."

Automating SVHC control

Burgers shared his plight with his friend Mick Geerits. Together they came up with the plan to automate the SVHC control. It was a good idea and right up Geerits's alley.

"We had to design a digital system that automatically maps all the SVHCs used. This gives you an overview of which substances are where and in what quantity. Moreover, the system needed to be web-based and easy to use."

Regional environmental services

Burgers and Geerits visited regional environmental services that monitor and enforce legislation for municipalities. There they mapped out problems and possibilities with the SVHC control.

Geerits then built a prototype SVHC tool that was successfully tested. This was followed by expansions of the tool.

"The inspection of an environmental service uses the SVHC tool for effectively carrying out checks at companies to comply with legislation," says Geerits. "Upload once, as easy as attaching a file in your mailbox, and you have immediate insight into all SVHCs and the legislation." 

Algorithms and machine learning

Deconcern's SVHC tool focuses on quickly processing large amounts of data. "We do this by uploading product information sheets that state which substances are in a product. The tool reads the sheets and checks them for the presence of SVHCs," explains Geerits.

"We use smart algorithms and machine learning for this. Machine learning recognises patterns. With large language models, the tool can understand text; with computer vision, the tool can understand images."

Significant steps

development agency of Gelderland and Overijssel. The company is located in the Splendor factory in Nijmegen.

Seven environmental services are now using the SVHC instrument. "We've made significant strides. Last year, we analysed the product information sheets for these environmental services at three hundred companies," reports Geerits.

"Soon, we will talk with the Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management to see how we can make legislation in the field of SVHCs more transparent."

Fast and reliable

The SVHC tool identifies all Substances of Very High Concern immediately. "For companies, the tool maps out within minutes whether and which Substances of Very High Concern are used in their business activities," says Burgers. "Everything is quick and reliable based on EU legislation."

The next step Deconcern is working on is expanding abroad. Geerits says, "We can extract increasingly relevant data from the product information sheets, to map the environmental impact of each substance in Europe in an automated way. Thus, from an overview and insight, safety also arises because the ultimate goal is that data-driven policy will reduce the use of SVHCs in the future to zero."

This testimonial was previously published in Dutch on TechGelderland.nl.