© Portrait Sam Rentmeester
‘Of course, we will continue to share (online) news about research and education’
We hear about the energy transition on a daily basis. Is it feasible? Will it remain affordable? How do we resolve the grid congestion issue? This demands more than just solar panels or wind turbines. We must consider things such as green hydrogen for industry and transport and an electricity grid that is ready for our sustainable ambitions. And big brains engaging in the discussion around nuclear power. These are typical Delft matters, which is why energy is the common thread in this edition. We’re also progressing with this issue on our campus: an underground thermal energy storage system means we will soon be able to store hot water from the geothermal source in summer for use in the winter.
Although we hear less about antibiotic resistance, it could become as big a threat as extreme weather caused by climate change. We at TU Delft are also working on a solution to this: bacteriophages, the natural enemies of bacteria. Thanks to the financial support of alumni, Stan Brouns was able to set up the Netherlands’ first phage bank in 2019.
And he’s continuing his work. Brouns wants to expand the phage bank and conduct further research on it so that the first patients can be treated in the Netherlands within a few years.
It’s one of the four projects in the Tech for Impact campaign, in which your support helps us contribute to a better world.
From cloud services and Silicon Valley to students in a moot court and housing in Addis Ababa, this issue of Delft Matters once again shines a spotlight on our community. For 40 years, first Delft Integraal and then Delft Matters have kept you informed. All issues have now been digitised and are a fantastic addition to our heritage collection. But times change and this is our final print edition. So this is a farewell of sorts. Of course, we will continue to share (online) news about research and education, ups and downs, successes and setbacks.
Professor Tim van der Hagen
Rector Magnificus TU Delft
Delft Matters stops on paper after this edition. Submit your e-mail address and stay up to date with the latest developments at TU Delft.
