RSA CE&C 2015-2021

20 Excellence in science requires researchwith state-of-the-art equipment at the forefront of science and technology. The department should develop a view on selecting appropriate advanced research equipment and computational infrastructure that is relevant to the main research lines and provide matching budget. This should also include the demands for data storage and processing associated with time-resolved and 3D analysis and with current open access policies. The advice is to re-install the Equipment Committee in order to develop a strategic plan with respect to research infrastructure, including basic equipment in the department. Societal relevance A number of upcoming external and internal changes affect the department. Society is changing rapidly, driven by economic, technological and environmental megatrends such as globalization, climate change, the associated energy transition, the transition to a fully circular economy, health, resources and digitalization. The growing role of multidisciplinary research across the molecular up to the macroscopic length scales is evident in solving today’s increasingly complex problems in the above-mentioned context. The disciplines of chemical engineering and chemistry are of pivotal importance to the Dutch economy. Our department can specifically address these challenges, exploiting our integrated approach by combining materials chemistry, molecular systems and chemical engineering sciences. ChemistryNL is one of nine top sectors in the Netherlands, aimed at creating opportunities from global societal challenges in the areas of climate, energy, circularity and health in a sustainable manner. Against this background, the department recognizes that its primary role is to educate young professional talents that can address these and future societal challenges by offering a coherent educational program based on excellent and innovative scientific and technological research.