A bit more about me

I'm excited to work towards a healthy and sustainable future, by connecting with and inspiring others. Finding innovative solutions in research and development tickles my imagination and sparks my enthusiasm.
 

Analytical

I am a scientist, researcher, developer and teacher. I studied biology and biomedical sciences at Utrecht University, UC Berkeley and UMass Amherst. I obtained my PhD in biophysics at the VU Amsterdam in the lab of prof. Erwin Peterman. I then took a dive in the wonderful world of fungi with prof. Tom Shimizu at the AMOLF institute in Amsterdam in collaboration with prof. Toby Kiers at the VU.

Currently, I'm developing and maintaining the home-built 2-photon microscopes in the lab of prof. Rainer Friedrich at the Friedrich Miescher Institute for Biomedical Research in Basel (Switzerland). As Research associate I manage the microscopes and support my colleagues in their research, from last-minute patches to long-term technical innovations.
 

Curious
I am most curious about how things function; I like to learn what makes people tick and I am fascinated by nature. I enjoy creating overview and bringing people together to ensure dynamic and productive teamwork. Teaching inspires me by passing on my fascinations and wish for others to share this.

I persevere to find innovative, out-of-the-box solutions for unforeseen challenges in new areas. I am motivated by challenges in which I can focus my curiosity and creativity on groundbreaking and innovative projects.
 

Creative
Making makes my day. Designing, developing and creativity also play a major role in my personal life. Most of my furniture I have made myself, and I strive towards a wardrobe where almost all my clothing is made by me. Music is always on my mind. Whether I'm listening, to funk, folk, Faure or a lot in between, or making music with my clarinet, practicing at home or in an amateur symphony orchestra.
 

Grounded
Connection is important to me. I highly value qualitative connections with others. Personal development, introspection and (Vipassana) meditation constantly teach me about myself and my connection with others.

Being in nature grounds and inspires me. A weekend or holiday will likely bring me to an outdoor activity. From a stroll trough the woods nearby to a sailing expedition in the Arctic. If I'm not hiking or on a ship, I'm likely dancing at a balfok festival.