Every year on Dies Natalis, Ghent University awards various honorary doctorates. This year, one of the Honorary doctorates was awarded to prof. Bert Weckhuysen from the Utrecht University for his exceptional scientific achievements in the field of in-situ and operando spectroscopy in the field of heterogeneous catalysis. Honorary supervisors are Professors Veronique van Speybroek of the Center for Molecular Modeling and Kevin van Geem of the Laboratory of Chemical Technology both belonging to the Faculty of Engineering and Architecture. We are proud on our collaboration with his group, which proves how computational and experimental research is able to push boundaries in our fundamental understanding of processes on a molecular level and can help to develop sustainable chemical processes and future generation catalysts.
Professor Bert Weckhuysen is a leading professor in Inorganic Chemistry and Catalysis at Utrecht University. He is considered one of the founders of in-situ spectroscopy of heterogeneous catalysts. His research focuses centrally on the development of structure-activity relationships in the field of heterogeneous catalysis and materials science. This research also plays a major role in the path towards more sustainable chemistry. Professor Weckhuysen is strongly convinced that chemistry is the key to transforming towards a more sustainable society. Professor Weckhuysen's work has been awarded many scientific prizes and distinctions, including the Spinoza Prize, the highest scientific award in the Netherlands.
On March 21st, prof. Weckhuysen gave a public lecture ‘Towards a More Sustainable and Circular Society: Dreams Become Reality with Chemistry and Catalysis’.
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