Ten years after joining TNO-ESI, I am proud to announce that I have been promoted to Principal Scientist for Model-based System Performance Engineering.
A Principal Scientist at TNO is a senior scientific leader who combines deep expertise with the ability to shape research directions and drive impact. They act as a bridge between science, industry, and strategic partners, ensuring that cutting-edge research is translated into real-world solutions. Principal Scientists are internationally recognized in their field, lead complex and high-impact research programs, and contribute to TNO’s long-term scientific and strategic agenda. In addition, they serve as role models within the organization, mentoring colleagues, inspiring others, and helping develop the next generation of scientists.
My positioning for the role built on a combination of three key pillars: (1) fundamental research, enabled by my appointment as Endowed Professor at the University of Amsterdam; (2) applied research at TNO-ESI in collaboration with industry partners such as Thales, Philips, and ASML; and (3) science management, through my roles as TNO-ESI Science Lead and Science and Technology Manager at unit ICT, Strategy & Policy (ISP). Through this combination, I have developed a strong overview of the innovation chain across technological readiness levels, as well as a clear understanding of how science connects with market and operations. This has enabled me to shape scientific programs and connect academia, research organizations, and industry within my field and beyond.
