Grants Veni November 2010
Below, you will find a list of awarded researchers, their dates and places of birth, and the name of the University or Research Center that hosts their research. Please note: the researchers do not have to make a final choice for a University or Research Center until after their projects are approved.
See also the press release: Over 40 million for young researchers
A through L
DeviantArt: Mapping the Alternative Art World
Dr A.A. (Alkim Amila) Akdag Salah (f) 28-8-1975, KNAW - Art History
The aim of this study is to analyse the DeviantArt social network. DeviantArt is an on-line network used by more than 11 million people in which home-made art is exchanged, discussed and can be purchased. The network is an extremely democratic platform for the appreciation of art, and significantly more independent of political or institutional preferences, for example, than the conventional art world. This research will examine how DeviantArt relates to the traditional art world and various other on-line communities, and how DeviantArt users relate to each other.
Women spies in the seventeenth century
Dr N.N.W. (Nadine) Akkerman (f) 22-8-1978, Leiden University - English Literature
The spy's shadowy world should be populated only by males. By examining how and where secret information was gathered and disseminated, this research will reveal spy networks and unmask the female spy for the first time.
Nanoparticles as therapeutic vaccines against cancer
Dr M. (Maryam) Amidi (f) 5-5-1974, Utrecht University
Worldwide, cancer is a major cause of death. Conventional treatments have serious side effects and are usually not able to heal patients fully. The goal of this project is to develop nanoparticles as therapeutic vaccines, so that the body is able to recognise and combat tumours.
Land privatisation and women's well-being
Dr C.S. (Caroline) Archambault (f) 10-6-1977, Ontario (Canada), Anthropology
The privatisation of pastoral rangelands in southern Kenya has stirred up considerable debate among scholars, policy makers and Masai. But the voices and perspectives of Masai women in such debates are remarkably absent. This research explores women's positions on privatisation and the impact that tenure reform has on their well-being.
Journalism and the tensions of neoliberal democracy
Dr I. (Isabel) Cherit Awad (f) 04-08-1973, Santiago (Chile), Erasmus University Rotterdam - Media and Communication
Chile is a society of contradictions. One of the most stable democracies and successful economies in Latin America, it is also an increasingly depoliticised and socially unequal society. This project deals with the understudied role of journalism in these contradictions.
(Un) healthy Ambiguity
Dr A. (Aurélien) Baillon (m) 05-22-1980, L'Arbresle (France), Erasmus University Rotterdam - Erasmus School of Economics
When new diseases appear (like swine flu), we lack a precise idea of the related risks. Being more careful might seem reasonable, but may lead to overreactions. This project aims to develop methods to adapt policies to unknown risks.
Black Hole arises in gravitational physics
Dr N. (Nabamita) Banerjee (f) 29-10-1979, Utrecht University - Institute for Theoretical Physics
Black holes occur when gravity becomes strong. Their unusual thermal properties will be investigated theoretically and those properties will also be used to obtain results on other types of physical phenomena that occur in liquids.
Heritage policy in Latin poetry from the Renaissance
Dr S.T.M. (Susanna) Beer (f) 5-2-1977, Leiden University - Greek and Latin Languages and Culture
The cultural and literary heritage of ancient Rome was studied with great enthusiasm during the Renaissance. This study looks at how Latin poetry of this period brought the Roman past back to life in various places in Europe.
The regulation of photosynthesis
Dr R. (Rudi) Berera (m) 04-28-1976, Sondrio (Italy), VU University Amsterdam - Biophysics
While light is the lifeblood of photosynthesis, too much light is deadly. To cope with excessive light, photosynthetic organisms have developed explicit strategies. With this research we wish to discover the molecular mechanisms at the base of this protection.
Populist media - populist audience?
Dr H.G. (Hajo) Orchards (m) 02-18-1977, Aurich (Germany), University of Amsterdam - Communication Science
Populism seems ever more important in politics, but what is the role of the media? This study looks at whether and how news media place messages during election campaigns in a populist manner, and determines the effects of this on political preferences and voting behaviour.
Reconciliation of private rights and public interests in investment disputes
Dr E. (Eric) de Brabandere (m) 08-04-1978, Ukkel (Belgium), Leiden University - International Public Law
International investment disputes deal with the public interests of the state and its citizens, but are settled by tribunals that approach these disputes with the principles of commercial and private law - which leads to conflict. The researcher analyses how the commercial and public aspects can be reconciled with each other.
Prediction of failing protein drugs
Dr V. (Vera) Brinks (f) 11-9-1980, Utrecht University - Biopharmacology and Pharmaceutical Technology
Protein drugs are used to treat diseases such as cancer, rheumatoid arthritis and multiple sclerosis. However, over time, protein drugs can stop working. This research will develop a test that can predict the patients in whom this will happen.
Plasmas for wound healing
Dr P.J. (Peter) Bruggeman (m) 25-5-1982, Eindhoven University of Technology - Applied Physics
Infection and slow wound healing are growing health care problems, all the more with the increasing resistance of bacteria to antibiotics. In this study, the controllability and safety aspects of plasmas (ionised gases) for wound healing will be studied.
Catalysts for sustainable products from biomass
Dr P.C.A. (Pieter) Bruijnincx (m) 9-4-1979, Roosendaal, Utrecht University - Inorganic Chemistry & Catalysis
Non-edible biomass, e.g. plant waste, could become the green resource for the sustainable production of fuels and chemicals. To achieve this, new conversion methods must be found. This research will attempt to develop catalysts for this.
Overestimation in education
Dr A.B.H. (Anique) Brown (f) 17-6-1977, Maastricht, Maastricht University - Educational Research & Education
From primary school to university, students significantly overestimate their academic performance. Overestimation leads to inefficient study behaviour and ultimately to low grades. This research examines how performance assessments can be improved without students reflecting verbally on their learning performance.
Violent words
Dr A.C. (Antoine) Buyse (m) 06-16-1977, The Hague, Utrecht University
Freedom of expression is a great thing. But what's to be done about expressions that contribute directly to conflict and violence? This study examines the precise limits of the human right to free speech by using theories of conflict escalation.
Self-regulation of brain activity
Dr T.W. (Tjeerd) Boonstra (m) 8-6-1978, Wageningen, VU University Amsterdam - Faculty of Kinesiology
Countless neurons are coordinated in our brains, similar to musicians in an orchestra. Unlike an orchestra, brains have no conductor. This research examines how neurons work together to allow our bodies to move in a controlled manner.
Individual behaviour with respect to extreme climate change risks
Dr W.J.W. (Wouter) Botzen (m) 2-21-1983, Grave, VU University Amsterdam - Institute for Environmental Studies
This study examines how individuals deal with those uncertain risks of climate change that are characterised by a low probability of severe consequences. Experiments and questionnaires will be used to examine how insurance can provide incentives to take measures that limit damage from natural disasters.
Mutual trust in European migration law: the role of the judge
Dr. E.R. (Evelyn) Brouwer (f) 10-21-1966, Eindhoven, Utrecht University - Constitutional and Administrative Law
In migration law, many decisions are made based on mutual trust among the EU Member States. The question here is whether the individual's fundamental rights are adequately protected. This study will examine the role of national judges.
Following vaccines in the body
Dr M.G. (Myrra) Carstens (f) 30-1-1978, Leiden/Amsterdam Centre for Drug Research
After being administered, vaccines follow a route through the body before they reach their destination. The exact course of this influences their effectiveness. This research will map this journey, which will allow the development of new vaccines.
Mobility without regret
Dr C.G. (Caspar) Chorus (m) 26-5-1977, The Hague, Delft University of Technology- Transport and Logistics
Prevention of regret after the fact is often an important driver in decision-making. This study translates this human tendency toward regret minimisation into an econometric model of (mobility) choice behaviour. This will be used to make predictions about traffic flows and the accessibility of cities.
Better health through the Internet
Dr R. (Rik) Crutzen (m) 10-8-1982, Heerlen, Maastricht University - Health Promotion
Health information and services are increasingly offered on-line, but are only sparsely used. When used, it is important that people perceive this as positive. This study examines how this user experience can be optimised so that use and, thereby, health improve.
Hyperbolic beauty in action
Dr S.R. (Sander) Dahmen (m) 1-12-1979, Amersfoort, Utrecht University - Mathematics
The circle limits in Escher's drawings sketch a beautiful picture of the hyperbolic plane. Such hyperbolic spaces also exist in higher dimensions. This project examines how this fascinating geometry can be used to find integer solutions to equations.
HELLP! How does it work?
Dr M. (Marie) van Dijk (f) 28-9-1980, Delft, VU University Amsterdam Medical Centre - Clinical Chemistry
The HELLP syndrome occurs in approximately 1 in 200 pregnant women and is partially genetically determined. This project examines how the inherited molecule works during pregnancy. With this, a laboratory test will be developed to recognise HELLP early.
Influencing processes among young people in the area of risky behaviour
Dr J.K. (Jan Kornelis) Dijkstra (m) 9-27-1976, Metslawier, University of Groningen - Sociology
During adolescence, young people are often involved in risky behaviours such as smoking, drinking, and delinquency. Influencing by peers plays a crucial role in this. But how do the processes of influencing work? Who influences whom and why? This study seeks to find answers to these questions.
Surinamese Indians party for regional cohesion
Dr R.S. (Renzo) Dune (m) 23-4-1974, Haarlem, Leiden University - Archaeology
Archaeologists and anthropologists often consider Surinamese Indians' villages as autonomous units. As a result, the historical and regional processes of non-complex societies' social cohesion remain insufficiently studied. This research examines the role of festivities in regional cohesion.
Deconstructing the super-organism
Dr B.E. (Bass) Dutilh (m) 2-5-1976, Utrecht, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre - Centre for Molecular and Biomolecular Informatics / Nijmegen Centre for Molecular Life Sciences
In the wild, microorganisms live in symbiosis as a super-organism consisting of many species that depend on one another for their survival. Using computer analysis, the researcher will unravel the basis for this dependency by identifying complementary metabolic pathways.
Antibodies initiate immune responses
Dr J. (Jerome) den Dunnen (m) 6-5-1980, Papendrecht, University of Amsterdam Academic Medical Centre - Cell Biology and Histology
Antibodies that our bodies make elicit specific immune responses, but are also important in diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus. This study will unravel the underlying mechanisms, in order eventually to improve vaccines and to find new rheumatoid and lupus medicines.
How like charges attract?
Dr W.G. (Wouter) Ellenbroek (m) 21-2-1979, Eindhoven University of Technology - Theory of Polymers and Soft Matter & Institute for Complex Molecular Systems
Particles with similar electrical charges generally repel each other, but in a saline solution, they can indeed attract each other electrically. In this manner, charged polymers can form all kinds of patterns under the influence of calcium ions. The researcher will unravel this surprising phenomenon using computer simulations and modelling.
Improving the accuracy of failure prediction
Dr A.M.H. (Alaa) Elwany (m) 7-25-1980, Alexandria (Egypt), Eindhoven University of Technology - Department of Industrial Engineering & Innovation Sciences
Unexpected failures of functioning systems result in huge economic and environmental losses. The researchers will model system degradation captured using sensor technology, and develop system prognostic methodologies to accurately predict failure time and improve maintenance and service logistics.
The nanoscientists' view of the universe
Dr A. (Akira) Endo (m) 7-23-1981, Osaka (Japan), Delft University of Technology - Kavli Institute of Nanoscience
Nanoscientists and astronomers work together to unravel the history of star formation. The team will develop and use a large network of superconducting far-infrared detectors to peer ten billion years into the past.
Increased security and quality of software
Dr J. (Jorge) Endrullis (m) 5-3-1981, Leipzig (Germany), VU University Amsterdam - Theoretical Computer Science
With their programs, computer systems big and small are increasingly finding their way into our daily lives. This project develops methods for automatically proving programs' correctness to ensure their safety and improve their quality.
Learning to speak
Dr H. (Hartmut) Fitz (m) 10-18-1972, University of Groningen - Center for Language and Cognition
Children learn their mother tongue effortlessly based on the speech in their environment. But they hear some words, phrases and sentences more often than others. How children use this information will be investigated using computer simulations.
Like a fish in water
Dr (Maria) Forlenza (f) 11-20-1978, Wageningen University and Research Centre - Cell Biology and Immunology
Fish get sick too. But fortunately, fish, like humans, can also be vaccinated. In this study, using the most advanced (DNA) vaccines, we will research how carp can be protected against two deadly viral diseases.
How do patients use their medicines?
Dr H. (Helga) Gardarsdottir (f) 12-8-1975, Reykjavik (Iceland), University Medical Centre Utrecht - Department of Clinical Pharmacy
To research the safety and efficacy of drugs, it is essential to know how they are used in practice. The project develops new methods for understanding this using pharmacy data, patient data and data from electronic medication packaging.
Making bone from cartilage
Dr D. (Debby) Gawlitta (f) 10-31-1979, University Medical Centre Utrecht - Orthopaedics
For orthopaedic treatment, much bone is needed. This study looks at a new way to make bone from bone marrow stem cells. This happens by making cartilage first, then bone, as occurs in the growth phase.
Behind the scenes of early modern diplomacy
Dr M. (Maarten) van Gelder (f) 12-2-1975, University of Amsterdam - History
In the early modern period, diplomacy partly took place behind the scenes. What was the importance of this informal, often covert, dimension? This study uses reports from the Venetian intelligence service, among other sources, to answer this question.
Why be complicated if it looks easy?
Dr L. (Lasse) Gerrits (m) 14-10-1979, Groningen, Erasmus University Rotterdam - Management Science
Many politicians have the idea that a simple decision, not endlessly debated and weighed, will lead to good results quickly. This project investigates whether that view is correct. Do simple decisions provide better results than complicated decisions?
Pre-Columbian statues in Nicaragua
Dr A. (Alex) Geurds (m) 12-10-1974, Velp (Gld), Leiden University - Archaeology
The researcher recently discovered a pre-Columbian pyramid complex in unknown archaeological territory in central Nicaragua. The ground there is littered with human size basalt statues. Were these gods, rulers or warriors? This research is about how, when and why these statues were made.
Squeezing out more light with silver nanoparticles
Dr R. (Ron) Gill (m) 14-7-1975, Haifa (Israel), University of Twente - Nanobiophysics
Dye molecules can emit 100x more light when positioned between nanoparticles. In this research, silver nanoparticles with controlled size and surface properties will be made to assemble around dye-labelled biomolecules. This could be used for developing better medical diagnostic tests.
Pancreatic cancer: an attack on the heart of the tumour
Dr E. (Elisa) Giovannetti (f) 22-11-1974, Pisa (Italy), VU University Amsterdam Medical Centre - Medical Oncology
Pancreatic cancer carries a particularly poor prognosis because of the presence of highly malignant cells in the heart of the tumour and insensitivity to current drugs. An innovative combination of advanced tumour models and array technologies will provide new targets for effective treatment.
The coral reef, a truly sustainable society
Dr J.M. (Jasper) de Goei (m) 12-8-1977, Leiderdorp, University of Amsterdam - Institute for Biodiversity and Ecosystem Dynamics
Even Darwin wondered: how can the world's most productive ecosystem, the coral reef, grow and flourish in a desert of water, the tropical ocean? Sponges may play the key role in the recycling of food on the reef.
Buying and eating behaviour in the face of mass product ranges
Dr C. (Caroline) Goukens (f) 20-8-1980, Herentals (Belgium), Maastricht University - Marketing
These days we see a huge increase in the variety of product ranges in the supermarkets. It seems as if there's a customised product for every consumer. This research examines how consumers' choices and eating patterns are influenced by this feeling of abundance.
Platelet inhibitors - do they work equally well for everyone?
Dr J.P. (Jacoba) Greving (f) 15-3-1977, Groningen, University Medical Centre Utrecht - Clinical Epidemiology
After a stroke, several types of platelet inhibitors are prescribed to reduce the risk of a second stroke. The researchers will investigate which factors determine which is the most effective platelet inhibitor for an individual patient.
Brave New Worlds
Dr L. (Liesbeth) van de Grift (f) 12-19-1978, Utrecht University - History
Throughout Europe, governments saw internal colonisation - the establishment of "new" land - as a solution to the economic, social and political crises of the Interbellum period. They tried to create a harmonious society in these "experimental spaces." This study examines whether and to what extent these practices differed in democratic and fascist regimes.
Three-dimensional imaging of tumours
Dr M. (Mattijs) de Groot (m) 1-04-1978, VU University Amsterdam - Biomedical Physics
For an effective treatment of colon or lung cancer, for example, it is important that tumours be made visible at an early stage. The researchers will develop a technique using fluorescent endoscopy that will portray small tumours three-dimensionally.
The social brain in adolescence
Dr B. (Berna) Güroglu (f) 23-07-1976, Izmir (Turkey), Leiden University – Developmental psychology
During adolescence, nearly everything revolves around relationships with peers. Adolescence is also a period of significant brain development. This research focuses on the development of the brain areas involved in social interactions with classmates and how this is related to problem behaviour.
Seeing enzymes in action
Ph.D. M.A.S. (Mathias) Hass (m) 24-02-1977, Copenhagen (Denmark), Leiden University – Chemistry
Enzymes are ingenious molecular machines that carry out the chemistry of life. This research project aims to develop a method to observe the motions of enzymes with atomic detail. This will help researchers to understand how enzymes operate.
Decisions in the boardroom
Dr E.M. (Eelke) Heemskerk (m) 11-12-1978, Ermelo, University of Amsterdam
Important decisions are made at the top of organisations. This research examines to what extent managers, in making decisions, consider what their colleagues would do. Appreciation from colleagues is perhaps a more important incentive than the organisation's interests.
Oxidants regulate the genesis of atherosclerosis
Dr K. (Kim) van der Heiden (f), 26-04-1980, Leiden, Erasmus Medical Centre – Biomedical Engineering
The cells lining our blood vessels respond to forces exerted by blood flow by producing oxidants. The researchers will look at how different types of oxidants, produced in different parts of the circulatory system, protect against or elicit atherosclerosis.
The sun in its latter years
Dr S. (Saskia) Hekker (f) 24-04-1978, Heeze, University of Amsterdam – Astronomy
Stars are born and evolve. The sun is an adult star, but will change greatly in a few trillion years and become an old star. The aim of this research project is to determine the internal structure of old stars.
Rapid DNA replicators nabbed
Dr I. (Iddo) Heller (m) 02-10-1979, VU University of Amsterdam - Physics of Complex Systems
Our DNA is copied 100 billion times each day. This happens so quickly that the copying mechanisms are still unknown. The researcher will film individual enzymes at ten thousand frames per second. This will inform us how replication errors, which can lead to disease and ageing, can be prevented.
Understanding sudden changes
Dr M.O. (Markus) Heydenreich (m) 05-08-1976, Berlin (Germany), VU University Amsterdam – Mathematics
When physical systems change state (think, for example, of ice melting), special effects and fractal structures arise at the point of transition. The researcher analyses mathematical models of such transitions with the aim of understanding these structures.
Why don't drugs make it to the market?
Dr L.H. (Laura) Heitman (f) 01-04-1981, Leiden University – Pharmaceutical Chemistry
Many diseases that are difficult to treat cry out for a drug that will remain at a vector point in the body for a long time. This rarely happens. The researchers will study how this residence time can be extended in order to combat disease effectively.
Adding and stirring dissolves it
Dr A.K.H. (Anna) Hirsch (f) 12-01-1982, Trier (Germany), University of Groningen – Bio-organic Chemistry
During the development of drug, several properties must be optimised simultaneously. In this study, a method will be developed that makes potential drugs soluble in water with the aid of excipients. This speeds up the execution of biological testing.
Reactions in water seen with tunnel vision
Dr A. (Arie) van Houselt (m) 10-08-1980, Rotterdam, University of Twente – Catalytic processes and materials
Reactions in water are difficult to study. Water gets in the way of many measurements. Chemists will now study reaction surfaces under water using a sharp conductive needle that can display molecules at a magnification of 10 million times.
How a tick ticks
Dr J. W.R. (Joppe) Hovius (m) 14-10-1976, Hunsel, University of Amsterdam – Infectious diseases
Lyme disease's infectious agent (Borrelia) is transmitted by ticks. This study analyses how the tick suppresses the host's immune response, how Borrelia misuses this to cause infection, and whether an anti-tick vaccine can prevent Lyme disease.
Deciphering Earth’s last climatic cooling event
Dr S.K. (Silja) Hüsing (f) 16-01-1979, Lower Hutt (New Zealand), Utrecht University – Earth Sciences
About 20 million years ago, Africa collided with Eurasia, resulting in the closure of the Mediterranean seaway to the Indian Ocean. This project investigates the impact this event had on the Earth’s ocean currents and its contribution to global cooling.
Adhesion between cells in the blood vessel
Dr S. (Stephan) Huveneers (m) 13-01-1980, Purmerend, Hubrecht Institute
Making new blood vessels is an important process and is involved in inflammatory diseases and cancer. The researcher will look for proteins that regulate adhesion among vascular cells. The role of these proteins will then be visualised with advanced microscopy.
A new view of the diabetic brain
Dr J.F.A. (Jaap) Jansen (m) 04-07-1979, Oirschot, Maastricht University Medical Centre – Radiology
Many diabetic patients have cognitive problems. Why these problems occur is not yet known. In this research, new imaging techniques will be used to detect what goes wrong in the brains of such patients.
Tanzanian entrepreneurship insured
Dr W. (Wendy) Janssens (f) 31-07-1974, Turnhout (Belgium), VU University Amsterdam – Developmental Economics
Microcredit for small entrepreneurs is gaining popularity in developing countries. Because of high medical expenses, the entrepreneurs, often uninsured, get into trouble. This study looks at whether the combination of health insurance and microcredit in Tanzania increases the effectiveness of both programmes.
Overweight? Fat imbalance!
Dr J.W.E. (Johan) Jocken (m) 01-06-1981, Hasselt (Belgium), Maastricht University – Human Biology
Obesity and diabetes are caused by an increased accumulation of fat in our abdominal fat and muscle. The breakdown of these fats (lipolysis) occurs by virtue of an ingenious balance of proteins. The researchers will study whether this balance is disturbed in people who are overweight and have a predisposition to develop diabetes.
Do more with the same DNA!
Dr (Frank) Johannes (m) 01-02-1976, Dresden (Germany), University of Groningen – Groningen Bioinformatics Centre
Populations of plants cannot run away from a changing environment, but are often still quick to adapt. Researchers will demonstrate that plants can do this by temporarily adapting the function instead of the code of their DNA sequence.
What suits us better?
Dr A. (Ank) de Jonge (f) 5/1/1967, Creil, VU University Amsterdam Medical Centre - Midwifery Amsterdam Groningen
Women can choose where they want to give birth. The questions in this study are: what is the influence of the place of birth and of the care provider (midwife or obstetrician) on complications in women? And how do women experience care?
Stop avoiding pain
Dr P.A. (Petra) Karsdorp (f) 20-12-1976, Amsterdam, Maastricht University - Psychology
Fear of pain forces automatic avoidance of painful activities, and promotes healing. Prolonged avoidance, however, can lead to limitations in daily life. It will be investigated whether good control (inhibitory control) of automatic avoidance behaviour can prevent limitations from pain.
Sticking like a gecko
Dr M. (Marleen) Kamperman (f) 02-02-1979, IJsselstein
Geckos, insects and spiders are able to hang upside down from a ceiling and to run up steep walls. The researchers will develop nature-based adhesive systems using polymeric springs.
What is quantum space-time geometry?
Dr I. (Igor) Khavkine (m) 09-06-1981, Moscow (Russia), Utrecht University – Institute for Theoretical Physics
The geometry of space-time gives rise to gravity. Thus, quantum mechanics applied to gravity must modify this geometry (distance, time, causal order). Researchers will quantitatively analyse the observable consequences of such modifications, in the limit of weak gravitational forces.
The knowledge network of organisations
Dr J. (Joris) Knoben (m) 14-09-1981, Huissen, Tilburg University – Organisation Science
Organisations often work together to form networks. This research examines what organisations know about the structure of these networks and their position in it. The causes and consequences of differences in the organisations' knowledge networks will also be studied.
Better disease prediction - what does it yield?
Dr H. (Erik) Koffijberg (m) 10-09-1976, Heinenoord, University Medical Center Utrecht – Julius Centre
Clinical predictive rules provide us with insight into (future) disease in humans. New diagnostic tests may lead in this case to better rules predictive rules. It is unclear whether improved predictions actually lead effectively and efficiently to better health. This project develops tools with which the value of predictive rules can be determined in practice.
The value of energy thrift in buildings
Dr N. (Nils) Kok (m) 11-07-1981, Maastricht University – Department of Finance
Buildings are large consumers of energy. Investments in energy efficiency can change this. This study examines the role of energy use in the purchase and use of buildings. Does it pay to make buildings more energy efficient? And do energy labels promote awareness?
Clouds on exoplanets
Dr R.J. (Remco) de Kok (m) 12-01-1982, Drachten, SRON
Nearly five hundred planets orbiting other stars have been discovered, but we know little about them. The researchers will examine how measurements of these exoplanets are influenced by their clouds, so that we can study their atmospheres better.
The control of asthma
Dr M. (Mirjam) Kool (f) 02-11-1975, Utrecht, Flemish Institute for Biotechnology – Molecular Biomedical Research Department
Asthma is caused by a disrupted immune response to allergens. The researchers have found that manipulation of the immune system can slow down the development of asthma. This project will examine how this inhibition of asthma is caused.
Molecular materials and nanosystems
Dr L.J.A. (Jan Anton) Koster (m) 24-05-1975, Eindhoven University of Technology
Plastic solar cells are a promising new type of solar cell. The further development of these requires a more accurate picture of how they work. This research will examine how the complex and chaotic internal structure affects the efficiency of these solar cells.
Small RNAs protect a failing heart
Dr G. (Guido) Krenning (m) 15-07-1980, Nijmegen, University of Groningen/University Medical Center Groningen – Pathology & Medical Biology
During heart failure a scar is created. Scarring is accompanied by the emergence of cells that produce the scar and changes in the presence of small regulatory RNAs. The researchers will study whether the formation of scar-forming cells can be prevented by modulating these small RNAs.
New governing parties: failure or success?
Dr S.L. (Sarah) de Lange (f) 07-02-1981, Middelburg, University of Amsterdam – Political science
The number of political parties with no government experience entering Western European cabinets has increased drastically in recent decades. Many commentators criticise this trend and claim that these parties generally perform poorly. This project investigates the veracity of this claim.
Aggression in antisocial patients
Dr J. (Jill) Lobbestael (f) 11-06-1980, Bilzen (Belgium), Maastricht University – Clinical Psychological Science
Antisocial patients are often aggressive. The researchers assume that aggression that is controlled or predatory is expressed differently from impulsive aggression. The physical and cognitive changes in both types of aggression will be examined.
Twisted light and helical structures
Dr W. (Wolfgang) Löffler (m) 19-10-1977, Leiden University - Leiden Institute of Physics
Helical structures are very common in nature. Even light can adopt twisted structural forms. Could the application of twisted light lead to better techniques for the observation of helical objects? This project will focus on the experimental study of this area.