Can you introduce yourself?
My name is Leo Posthuma. I studied Biology at the VU University with specializations in Animal Ecology, Plant Ecology, Phytopathology, and Population Genetics. During my studies, the new field of 'ecotoxicology' emerged, where I conducted my PhD research. I was able to prove that long-term exposure to metal mixtures in the environment leads to micro-evolution and genetic adaptation. With this knowledge, I was able to start working directly at RIVM, from 1992 until present. Since 2016, I work one day per week at Environmental Science.
Why did you choose to study/work in this field? What makes this field so interesting?
In 1962, the book "Silent Spring" was published about field effects of chemical substances, and it is still highly relevant today. There are now more than 350,000 substances in commerce and there are very complex environmental mixtures. In my fundamental and applied research, it's about making this complexity (many substances, many mixtures, many biological species) manageable. This is for protection, when possible, and recovery, when necessary.
What are you currently researching?
My research focuses on various topics, but mainly on diagnosing field impacts: where are there impacts on biodiversity and what causes them? Additionally, I focus on devising, creating, and validating methods that reduce substance-related problems in practice. This includes collaboration with colleagues specialized in Machine Learning.
What tip do you have for students who are choosing their field of study? And what do you enjoy most about working with students?
Combine the pleasure you have in a subject with the usefulness of potential results. Useful applications of research results give me a lot of pleasure. The best thing about working with students is their open-minded attitude: not "yes, but" but "yes, and...".