Operating within the large science faculty, the VU Technology Centre plays an active role in both education and research. Recently, the center successfully conducted a pilot in the Demo Lab, where VU-UT Mechanical Engineering students were guided through the technical development process with a focus on refining skills such as laser cutting, 3D printing, soldering, and further developing other technical competencies. “Collaborating with the students resulted in valuable and engaging experiences,” says Rob Nieman, Technician Research and Education.
The VU Technology Centre also developed a digital platform called 'BugZoo', in collaboration with Natalia Silvis-Cividjian, Assistant Professor of Computer Science. “Through BugZoo, computer science students learn in an interactive way about the consequences and detection of software errors in smart devices: an educational innovation within the theme of 'smarter and better learning with ICT',” explains Rob Limburg, Head of Electronics Beta.
In research, the center actively participates in shaping research ideas and developing specific technological innovations for scientists. Currently, the center is busy developing a lightweight moth trap for Dr. Wouter Halfwerk (Associate Professor at the VU Faculty of Science, Ecology & Evolution) to capture moths for his research. Additionally, they actively contribute to projects, such as when a scientist wants to investigate the effects of temperature, irrigation, and lighting on soil life.
Want to know more about how they make education and research possible at VU? Take a behind-the-scenes look at the VU Technology Centre in this video reportage.
