Foto: NWO The Dutch Research Council (NWO) supports 43 renowned scientists with a grant. Twelve per cent of the 369 applications were approved, a little more than last year. WUR researchers Bernice Bovenkerk and Joris Sprakel will put the grant toward their innovative research line in Wageningen.
The Vici grant, which can be as high as 1.5 million, is designed to support highly experienced scientists. The funds enable them to expand their research group and engage in innovative research in the coming five years.
In Wageningen, animal ethicist Bernice Bovenkerk is to study under what conditions digital technology contributes to the relationship between humans and animals, both for domesticated and wild animals. The project aims to formulate ethical guidelines to make the development of digital technology more equitable. Biochemist Joris Sprakel will use the combined power of physics, chemistry and biology to study the mechanical “weapons” that pathogens deploy to breach plant defences. The insights this project yields will lay the foundation for a new approach to protecting crops from disease.
12 per cent approved
A total of 12 per cent of the 369 applications submitted to the NWO for the 2024 Vici round were approved. One percent more than the previous round. Utrecht University has a cause for celebration, and no less than six researchers have been awarded a grant. Success also for TU Delft (4), Leiden University (4), the University of Amsterdam (4), and the much smaller Twente University (3). The Vici grants, together with the Veni and Vidi grants, are part of the NWO Talent Programme, designed to support scientists at several key moments in their careers.
With HOP, Hein Cuppen
