Nikhef researcher Gideon Koekoek receives Maastricht University’s FSE Societal Impact Award

During Maastricht University’s (UM) annual Faculty Day, Nikhef researcher Gideon Koekoek received the first Societal Impact Award from UM’s Faculty of Science and Engineering (FSE). Koekoek: “The award is for individuals who dedicate themselves to the impact of our research and of our faculty, in the broad sense of the word. That could be, for example, translating to the general public, stakeholders, and politics, but also developing initiatives for education. That FSE has created this Award shows that impact and teaching play as big a role in academic work as research.”

The award was given for several reasons, wrote Hanne Diliën, FSE’s Vice-Dean of Education: “Your unwavering commitment to fostering meaningful connections between science and society has truly set you apart. Your efforts resonate far beyond the walls of academia.”

The jury was especially impressed with Koekoek’s multi-faceted approach to public engagement and his ability to inspire future generations of scientists. In addition, his role as an ambassador for UM’s Recognition & Reward program demonstrates his commitment to advancing academic culture. By championing education, leadership and societal impact in addition to research, the jury sees Koekoek as an example of the values of this award.

Koekoek is proud that the FSE values impact and education so highly. “Good science is not possible without committing to good education and actively involving society. I have always been given a lot of room to work on this at UM, and with me many other colleagues, and it pays off: we do wonderful projects there! Enough to present the Award many more times. Very cool that I get to propagate this this year!”