Looking back at the Opening Week

The Faculty of Science and Engineering at the University of Groningen recently celebrated a major milestone: the Grand Opening of the Feringa Building, the university’s newest and most advanced scientific facility. The opening was marked by a vibrant week of festivities, bringing together students, researchers, partners, and the wider community to experience the future of science and technology in Groningen.

The celebrations began on 14 June with an Open House, where visitors explored state-of-the-art laboratories, met scientists, and joined interactive demonstrations. This event showcased the building’s cutting-edge facilities and strengthened the connection between the university and the community.

Impressions of the Open House

On 17 June, the official opening ceremony welcomed distinguished guests, business partners, and university stakeholders. Highlights included a speech by René Paas (King’s Commissioner in Groningen), a performance by university poet and FSE student Femke de Heer, a presentation by Joost Ector (CEO of Ector Hoogstad Architecten, the building’s designers), and a panel interview on translating scientific knowledge into real-world impact with guest of honor Constantijn van Oranje, Special Envoy Techleap. Guests also toured the advanced labs, participated in interactive sessions, and enjoyed student presentations addressing societal challenges. Special attractions like the Kapteyn Mobile Planetarium and the Chemistry Escape Room added to the excitement.

Impressions of the Grand Opening

The week concluded with a festive reception, celebrating not only the completion of a remarkable building but also the start of a new era of groundbreaking research and innovation at the University of Groningen. Named after Nobel Laureate Prof. Ben Feringa, the building stands as a symbol of advanced research, sustainability, and collaboration—designed to inspire creativity and discovery for generations to come.

The Feringa Building is set to be the beating heart of scientific progress, fostering connections and creating impact both locally and globally.