My research field is analytical chemistry, which means that people are constantly working on finding new analytical methods, analytical equipment and optimizing them, so that we will eventually be able to measure certain substances and demonstrate diseases, for example. So I see this field as the basis for many new discoveries, because it can be linked to everything that consists of molecules. And I find that motivating.
The title of my thesis is 'Photodegradation Illuminated - New analytical tool for studying photochemical processes'. Together with, among others, the University of Amsterdam and several public and private partners, we went looking for new techniques and methods to better study photodegradation. Photodegradation is the process that occurs when a molecule disintegrates or reacts with other molecules as a result of exposure to light. This can be beneficial, for example in water purification where UV radiation is used to break down harmful substances, but it can also have adverse effects. Think of the breakdown of nutrients and the fading of art in museums. This needs to be prevented, but first we need to investigate exactly how these processes occur. With the results of our study, we can now study these processes more precisely, faster and more reliably.
Letting my imagination run wild
I must confess that I really enjoyed writing my thesis for most of the time. I have always enjoyed writing stories and it gave me a chance to let my imagination run wild, up to a point of course. It's still a scientific piece! By focusing on which chapters I wanted to have in my booklet in the first few years of my PhD, I was able to frame my research accordingly. Thus, I conducted my research based on the storyline I had in my head. I think that makes life as a PhD student a bit easier, unlike when you have to base a story on the research results obtained. I also loved thinking about the cover and a layout. I could really use my creativity in that as well.
After 4.5 years, I look back with satisfaction on my life as a PhD student at Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam. I have always experienced a lot of freedom and within the Bio-Analytical Chemistry group there was always room to be yourself. Working with international colleagues and students made me realize that sometimes you have to adapt to the people around you to get a good result. This could be quite complicated at times, but in the end it was mostly very rewarding. Moreover, as a PhD student, you are a 'male/female of everything': you are a manager, supervisor, coach, lecturer, researcher, etc. This ensures that you are constantly challenged, but a huge all-rounder after your PhD and I am really grateful for that. Of course, it was not always easy and there were setbacks (read COVID), but if there is anything I have learned, it is that there is always a diversion to achieve the same goal. Be flexible and resilient and you will come a long way!
New job at Netherlands Forensic Institute
On 28 June, I will get my PhD and I am looking forward to that immensely. In June I will start my new job as a 'Scientific Officer' at the Netherlands Forensic Institute in June. I am being trained there as a 'drugs expert' and will be directing research and teaching in this field, among other things. It is a fraction less scientific research than I am used to, but it will still be part of what I will be doing. After all, research is really in my blood. From there, I'll see how things progress! I'm not someone who already knows what life will be like in five years, but a trip around the world is definitely on the cards! ;-)