What do you like most about your job?

What I enjoy the most about my work is the interaction with (small groups) of students. I motivate them and make them enthusiastic by using lively academic discussions about science and research. Of course, my goal is to introduce them to the weird and wonderful world of mathematics and statistics, where they’ll hopefully succeed in finding their way. Something else that I feel is important is being part of a close-knit team with my colleagues.

Which research from the past year are you most proud of?

I’m especially proud of the amazing learning materials that we’ve developed in the digital learning environment. This will be used extensively to challenge students at home or during lectures to tackle the subject matter. The goal is to discover what they’ve already mastered and what they need to improve.

What do colleagues probably not know about you?

As the 11th child in a family with 14 children (including 3 sets of twins born within 2 years: 2 boys, 2 girls and a girl and a boy), I had a fantastic childhood. I ran the New York Marathon with my 8 brothers (we called it the Maréethon). I’m also a member of the Utrecht-based theatre choir Vinger in Je Oor where I perform a variety of roles in my leisure time. I invite everyone to come to one our performances!