From PFAS in breast milk to global fungal networks and the persistent influence of misinformation. Four VU Amsterdam researchers have been nominated for the inaugural Quest Science Awards (Quest Wetenschapslintjes). The winners will be announced on Tuesday 10 November.
With these new awards, popular science magazine Quest aims to shine a spotlight on remarkable scientific discoveries and talented researchers. Awards will be presented in four categories: Scientist of the Year, Scientific Talent of the Year, Scientific Breakthrough of the Year and the People's Choice Award for Research of the Year. The four VU Amsterdam researchers have been nominated in two of these categories.
Scientific Breakthrough of the Year
Virissa Lenters – PFAS in breast milk
PFAS are found not only in our food, drinking water and blood, but also in breast milk. Epidemiologist Virissa Lenters, together with researchers from RIVM and Amsterdam UMC, analysed breast milk samples from 1,629 women in the Netherlands. PFAS were detected in all samples, with concentrations exceeding a health-based risk threshold in 18% of cases. According to Lenters, the findings highlight the importance of stricter regulations to reduce the spread of PFAS. At the same time, she emphasises that breastfeeding remains healthy. Quest interviewed Lenters about the research.
Jos van Ommeren – Reducing medication use through better ventilation and insulation
Can making homes more energy-efficient also improve people's health? Urban economist Jos van Ommeren, together with researchers from Eindhoven University of Technology, investigated how improved insulation and ventilation can reduce health problems. The study shows that better insulation and ventilation reduce mould problems and medication use. This means that making homes more energy-efficient can also contribute to better health.
Scientific Talent of the Year
Dian van Huijstee – The effects of misinformation
Even when false information is corrected, its influence can persist. Communication scientist Dian van Huijstee investigates why misinformation is so persistent and how people can better distinguish fact from fiction. Her research highlights the importance of media literacy and critically assessing information, even when it challenges our own beliefs.
Justin Stewart – Underground fungal networks
Systems ecologist Justin Stewart and his research team mapped the global extent of underground fungal networks. These networks are essential to ecosystems and support much of the world's plant life. Through his research, Stewart hopes to contribute to better protection of these fungi. “In most natural areas, fungi receive hardly any attention at all. Through my work, I want to raise awareness of the existence of these networks and the threats they face, so that we can protect and restore them.” Quest interviewed both Stewart and Van Huijstee about their nominations and research.
The awards ceremony will take place on 10 November at Quest's editorial offices in Amsterdam. The event will also feature the inaugural Chriet Titulaer Lecture, in which science philosopher Bas Haring will discuss the importance of making science accessible to a wider audience. Further information about the event is available on the Quest website.