There are so many outstanding and inspiring alumni from the University of Groningen

What are you doing at the moment?
I am currently the CEO and co-founder of Cradle, a company that uses AI to develop proteins for the pharmaceutical, chemical, food and agricultural industries. With our technology, we aim to make the process of developing new proteins much faster and more efficient, so that we can contribute to solutions for areas such as new medicines, more sustainable chemical processes and innovative food production.

Do you remember the moment you found out you’d been named Alumnus of the Year? What went through your mind?
I was particularly proud that our work at Cradle was being recognised in this way. At the same time, I was also a little surprised, as I perhaps didn’t have the very best academic track record. That’s precisely why this recognition felt all the more special.

What did it mean to you to be named Alumnus of the Year? What did you like so much about the title?
There are so many outstanding and inspiring alumni from the University of Groningen, so being chosen from such a large group is truly special. What I particularly like about this title is that it doesn’t just focus on academic achievements, but also on social impact. That makes it all the more meaningful to me.

Has the title brought you any tangible benefits?
Above all, it has brought me many new contacts, particularly with academic groups, both within and outside Groningen. This, in turn, has led to interesting discussions and potential collaborations.

Why should people nominate an Alumnus of the Year?
People from Groningen don’t like to blow their own trumpet, but RUG alumni are doing a great deal of important and remarkable work. That is precisely why it is good that these people are nominated and receive recognition for what they do. This is not only rewarding for the individuals themselves, but also inspiring for others.