Research funder NWO has awarded Vidi grants totalling EUR 86.8 million to 102 scientists. Eight of these researchers are affiliated with TU Delft, three of whom are part of the Faculty of Civil Engineering and Geosciences.
This year’s Vidi laureates are:
Christian Andersen (QuTech, Faculty of Applied Sciences) is working on quantum spin networks: “It’s still an open question how to build the best quantum chips. One of the major challenges is how to connect large numbers of qubits.”
Sabina Caneva (Faculty of Mechanical Engineering) is developing a biophysical platform to control the dynamics of biomolecules: “By combining ultra-thin, biocompatible 2D material surfaces with DNA nanotechnology, we will use fluorescence microscopy techniques to study how biomolecules function.”
Anne-Catherine Dieudonné (Faculty of Civil Engineering and Geosciences) is studying the dynamic equilibrium of water in clay: “This project will lead to greater technical confidence in the feasibility and safety of geological storage of radioactive waste in clay formations.”
Richard Kraaij (Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mathematics & Computer Science) is focusing on optimisation in curved spaces: “Just like the fastest route from Amsterdam to San Francisco follows a curved path over Greenland, other problems can be optimised by first understanding the relevant curvature.”
Darinka Czischke (Faculty of Architecture and the Built Environment) is researching 21st century housing, particularly collective living arrangements as an alternative to traditional family models: “These ‘collective living models’ aim to make housing more affordable, reduce environmental impact, and combat loneliness through stronger social connections. How many people are truly willing to live this way?”
Mohammad Fotouhi (Faculty of Civil Engineering and Geosciences) is exploring ways to extend the lifespan of composite materials by adding ductility (toughness): “Tougher composites could lower costs without sacrificing performance.”
Oriol Colomés Gené (Faculty of Civil Engineering and Geosciences) is working on floating solar parks, particularly solutions to the complex challenges posed by wind and waves that large solar fields face: “I aim to pave the way for the sustainable scaling of floating solar energy and contribute to future offshore developments.”
Borbála Hunyadi (Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mathematics & Computer Science) aims to create a map of neurological disorders: “By analysing the characteristics of individual brain networks, a patient could be placed on this map, helping doctors with diagnosis and treatment plans.”
- Read more about it on the website of TU Delft.
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