What do you do at VU Amsterdam and how long have you worked here?
“I have been working at VU Amsterdamsince 2003. I studied environmental science and biology, but I took a different path and now work as head of housing at the Faculty of Science. Together with my team, I advise and act on GMO, RA, safety and internal facility matters. We help in the faculty with support and “enabling…” At the moment, much of my time is spent on the New Research Building and the renovation of the AB wings of the W&N building. Our faculty does this in a construction team together with FCO.”
“In complex buildings like this, everything comes together and good cooperation is required. In addition to the requirements regarding technology, light, climate and vibrations, everything must be arranged within the VU with AMD, IT, housing, real estate, facilities, etc. Ultimately, these buildings should last for years and form a good workplace for the VU and betas."
What is the best thing about working at the Faculty of Science?
"A lot of enthusiastic colleagues work at the Faculty of Science who dedicate their heart and soul to their work. They do fantastically beautiful things. I get excited every time I hear what kind of research they carry out. The nice thing is if you can contribute to this by offering good accommodation that fits in with the research. In addition, VU is always on the move. It never gets boring."
What could the faculty do better?
“It is important at the Faculty of Science that we know where to find each other. We are working on interesting things in many areas. If you know how to find the right people, you will get further."
Which book, film, album do you think your colleagues should read, see or hear?
"Not too much of the above. Go outside!!"
What are your plans this weekend?
“I leave Saturday morning (last Saturday, ed.) at 4.30 am with the scouting for Austria. We're going camping for a week."
Who do you pass the baton to?
“I am happy to hand over the baton to Lisette Kootker, who works at Earth Sciences. She is one of the enthusiastic colleagues who moved to the new education building."
Dilemmas
Are you beta or alpha?
A beta.
Online meetings or on location?
A healthy mix is pleasant and is also possible. Seeing each other at the VU is important and energizing.
Elevator or stairs
Stairs. In W&N always. In O|2 I still doubt if I have to go to the 13th floor.
Spar or mensa?
Spar.