Bert Weckhuysen's work is characterized by a combination of impressive synthetic work (new catalysts) and the study of catalytic processes through the development and use of advanced spectroscopic techniques. His research takes place at the intersection of chemistry and physics. Bert Weckhuysen is an outstanding spectroscopist and has a very thorough and fundamental knowledge of the theory of spectroscopy. He uses his spectroscopic background to develop new spectroscopic techniques that enable him to monitor catalytic processes in situ under conditions such as those prevailing in a chemical reactor. A fine illustration of his pioneering work using in situ spectroscopy (UV-VIS, Raman, and X-ray!) is the elucidation of the mechanism of action of various catalytic conversions on chromium oxide and vanadium oxide. In addition, Bert Weckhuysen conducts spectroscopic research into catalytic processes in various (industrially applied) zeolites, such as Z SM and M CM, and is uniquely capable of gaining new insights into the mechanism of action and the active sites in these catalysts.
He recently started a new line of research in which enzymes from nature serve as inspiration for the design of new synthetic catalysts. In all his research, the combination of synthetic inorganic chemistry and physical chemistry for characterizing and interpreting measurements forms the basis for success. Bert Weckhuysen's research is characterized by his ability to translate fundamental knowledge into new techniques and relevant knowledge for understanding and improving catalysts that are relevant for industrial applications. Bert Weckhuysen's scientific oeuvre is not only of high quality, it is also very extensive. He now has more than 140 publications to his name, and the group he has built up in recent years is particularly productive. His impressive list of publications includes both highly regarded specialist journals (such as J. Catal., Catal. Let t., J. Phys. Chem.) and more general, highly prestigious journals (such as Nature, Angewandte Chemie Int. Ed., Journal of the American Chemical Society). The citation score of his work is exceptionally high, demonstrating the significant influence his work has had on the field. National and international recognition for the excellent quality and importance of Bert Weckhuysen's research is also evident from the many lectures he has been invited to give around the world. Bert Weckhuysen has built up the research group he leads over the past six years entirely on his own. He started as a young professor in Utrecht six years ago. He has successfully acquired a great deal of external support (from NWO and industry) for his work (including a highly prestigious VICI grant and, more recently, a TOP grant), enabling his group to grow to 20 employees in a short period of time.
In addition to his scientific successes, Bert Weckhuysen has developed in recent years into a policy-determining scientist both within and outside the field of catalysis. He is Scientific Director of the National Research School for Catalysis (NIOK), which brings together the top research in the field of catalysis in the Netherlands. He is also chair of the Catalysis section of the KNCV and sits on the organizing committees of various international conferences and editorial boards of journals in the field of catalysis. His scientific interests and influence extend beyond catalysis. Bert Weckhuysen was recently elected as a member of the Young Academy of the KNAW. This select group of young scientists is regarded as the new generation of policy-determining scientists in the Netherlands.
The jury for the 2006 Gold Medal was impressed by the quality and quantity of his publications, as well as the recognition Bert Weckhuysen has received through citations of his work. His enthusiasm for chemistry, combined with his communication skills, make him a worthy ambassador for the field.
In awarding this prize to Bert Weckhuysen, the jury wishes to honor a young, successful scientist who will undoubtedly be among the new generation of policy-determining scientists in the Netherlands in the future.
September 28, 2006
On behalf of the 2006 Gold Medal Jury
Dr. Ellen M.M. de Brabander- van den Berg, DSM
The jury also consisted of:
Prof. Arno Kentgens, RU Nijmegen
Prof. Rene A.J. Janssen, TU Eindhoven
Prof. Marc Timmers, UU
Prof. Kees van der Wiele, Albemarle
