Science and Technology Student Award for Master's student Marianne Knoester (Theoretical Physics)
Utrecht University Master’s student in Theoretical Physics Marianne Knoester has won the Eindhoven-Utrecht Science and Technology Student Award 2014-2015. Knoester received the award for her research proposal ‘Fractals in Graphene’, to study the characteristics and possible applications of graphene. Her study will combine theoretical physics with experimental physics. The award includes a prize of € 2,500. The award was presented at the annual conference of the strategic alliance between the three knowledge institutions Utrecht University, UMC Utrecht and the Eindhoven University of Technology.
The jury was impressed by Marianne Knoester’s ‘intellectual capacity’. “Marianne’s research proposal not only utilised the complimentarity of the groups from Utrecht and Eindhoven, but also illustrated that the combination of theoretical and experimental physics is vital in order to continue to develop both approaches to their fullest”, according to the jury President, Prof. Gerard van Koten (right). Knoester will perform her graduate research under the supervision of Prof. Cristiane Morais Smith at Utrecht University.
Graphene
Graphene is a unique form of carbon, in which a single layer of carbon atoms are arranged in a honeycomb structure, giving it unusual characteristics. For example: it is extremely strong, superconductive, thin, flexible and elastic, and it can withstand high temperatures. Since graphene was first created in experiments in 2003 by the later Nobel Prize winners Andre Geim and Konstantin Novoselov, it has been the subject of considerable global research into its characteristics and applications.
Eindhoven-Utrecht Science and Technology Student Award
The Eindhoven-Utrecht Science and Technology Student Award was created to encourage talented young researchers to conduct research at the juncture of disciplines by utilising the unique knowledge available at the three participating institutions. This can include research that has not yet begun, current research or research that has already been completed. Students may submit a proposal, and the winners will receive a certificate and a monetary award of € 2,500.
Strategic alliance between Eindhoven and Utrecht
In 2011, Utrecht University signed a strategic alliance with UMC Utrecht and TU Eindhoven. This alliance will reinforce the existing ties in research, education and knowledge valorisation, and build upon the fields in which they complement one another. The collaboration’s focus lies on sustainable energy, medical imaging and regenerative medicine. The joint Master’s programme Regenerative Medicine and Technology combines biomedical science with technology. SUMMA-tech is a study track within SUMMA, a study programme for doctors/researchers who have an affinity with technology.