Congratulations to Jacquelien Scherpen and Lude Franke on their appointment as members of the Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences (KNAW). A wonderful recognition for two leading scientists who, from the University of Groningen at Campus Groningen, contribute to innovation, talent development and societal impact. Their work demonstrates the strong connection between fundamental research, technological development and real-world application in the Northern Netherlands. Read the full article published by the University of Groningen here.
Professors Jacquelien Scherpen (who is also University of Groningen Rector Magnificus) and Lude Franke (UMCG) have been appointed members by the Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences (KNAW). The KNAW elected 16 new members. The approximately 600 members of the KNAW are leading scientists from all disciplines. Membership is for life.
Jacquelien Scherpen is Professor of Systems and Control at the Faculty of Science and Engineering and Rector Magnificus of the UG.
Her research applies to all kinds of technical systems, from controlling robots to regulating smart energy systems. Scherpen made significant contributions to the mathematics of balancing models for ‘non-linear control systems’, such as a thermostat linked to a heating system, thereby reducing their complexity. It is noteworthy that she also collaborated interdisciplinarily with behavioural scientists and economists to incorporate human factors. Scherpen speaks out publicly on science, technology and the development of talent. As a woman in a technical, male-dominated field, Scherpen fulfils her role as a role model with vigour.
Lude Franke is Professor of Functional Genomics at the University Medical Center Groningen (UMCG).
Lude Franke investigates non-coding DNA, genome sequences that are not transcribed into proteins and shed light on how cells and organisms function, and also opened up new avenues for the development of novel drugs. During the covid-19 outbreak, Franke developed the Corona Barometer, which helped us understand how the pandemic was unfolding. In addition, Franke has played a leading role in developing real-world applications for new discoveries, such as an affordable pharmacogenetic passport that predicts a patient's response to certain drugs. Franke also has a gift for visualising his research, and has won several awards for his graphic design work.
Source: rug.nl
Who is developing the most impactful innovation in Life Sciences & Health in the Northern Netherlands? Five companies are in the running for the LIFE Science Innovation Award 2026: Flux Robotics, Limosa Immunodiagnostics, SPCTR, MimeCure and GlycanScan International. The nominees will present their innovations on Tuesday 22 September during the fifth edition of the LIFE Science Conference in Groningen. An independent jury will select the winner, who will receive a €10,000 cash prize.
A much-loved tradition The Campus Trail has become a much-loved tradition on campus. Students, employees and professionals from companies and organisations across the campus ecosystem lace up their running shoes for a sporty 6.4-kilometre route through buildings and past some of the campus’s unique labs. The rapid growth in registrations shows just how much the Campus Trail has become part of the campus community. The combination of sport, meeting others and the unique campus setting makes the run a great opportunity to connect with people outside the usual work and study environment. And there’s no need to head home as soon as you cross the finish line. During the after-party, hosted by Contini Catering, participants can relax together, enjoy a drink and celebrate the afternoon. There’s still time to join: those who want to take part can register online until 3 September, or sign up on the day itself using the PIN Campus Trail 2026 | Campus Groningen.
ZonMw is expected to open the final call for proposals within the PharmaNL Shared Development Infrastructure (SDI) program line. This program line focuses on strengthening the infrastructure for the development, upscaling, and production of innovative medicines in the Netherlands.
