RSA CE&C 2015-2021

9 1. Introduction 1.1. MISSION OF THE DEPARTMENT The Department of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry is a nationally and internationally valueddepartment of EindhovenUniversity of Technology (TU/e).Themission of the department is to be a center of inspired learning in chemical engineering and chemistry, encouraging the pursuit of new knowledge and innovative scholarship. To fulfill this mission, its vision is to provide strong chemical engineering and chemistry education on solving complex societal problems to advance basic science and technology while impacting the chemical industry, other associated industries and broader society. By interlinking molecular systems, materials chemistry and chemical engineering sciences, the department bridges fundamental research and marketable applications and commits itself to excellence in education, research and valorization. 1.2. SCIENCE AND EDUCATION Very recent global developments clearly stress the importance of science and technology in solving societal problems. Scientists in the department feel an urgent responsibility to contribute to solving the challenges of today and the future related to energy supply, resource scarcity and health. This is done in close collaboration with other knowledge institutes, industrial partners and societal organizations to ensure industrial and societal relevance. Research and education are strongly intertwined in our department. Most of the department is located in the Helix building on the TU/e Science Campus and houses a modern lab infrastructure with a wide range of advanced scientific instruments and facilities for educational and research activities. The department has a collegial atmosphere with multiple collaborations and the sharing of expertise and scientific equipment infrastructure, unrestricted by organizational boundaries. To create scientific strength, visibility and coherence, research in the department is currently organized into two thematic research domains: 1) Molecular Systems and Materials Chemistry, covering research involving atomic-scale molecular design and the nanoscale organization of new functional materials, and 2) Chemical and Process Technology, focusing on the design of integrated multiphase reactors, process engineering and equipment concepts. The researchers in the department perform cutting-edge research in chemical engineering and chemistry at the forefront of science and technology, covering the knowledge chain ranging from molecules to processes. Molecular Systems and Materials Chemistry The Molecular Systems and Materials Chemistry domain focuses on the design, synthesis and dedicated molecular engineering of novel molecules, macro and supramolecular assemblies, and functional, responsive or bio-inspired materials. Researchers in this cluster investigate how to control the chemistry, structure and morphology of materials and interfacial phenomena at different length scales of polymers and supramolecular constructs and relate the material features to the functional performance of such advanced and interactive materials. Moreover, this involves new routes to polymer materials using renewable resources and polymer recycling.