Latest blog articles in the blog group Science and Engineering

Almost 20 years ago, in 2002, I had the honour to give one of the “William Harvey lectures” at the University of Padua, celebrating the 400th anniversary of the Englishman’s graduation with a degree in medicine from the famous Italian university.

I teach the introduction to biology course, which is probably one of the first courses that you will take at the MSP. I also coordinate the practical courses, so the first time that you go to the lab, you will encounter me as well.

For me, Problem-Based Learning is about democratising the classroom. It is about realising that everyone has something of value to add (not only the teacher) and that everyone in the room can bring something to the discussion. It is a very productive way to solve problems and to move forward.

What really makes the MSP special is the small-scale teaching and the close contact with students. Us as teachers get to know you as students very well and vice versa. Because of this, I can teach you a lot more than what you need to know to just pass my exams.

I have worked with many different kinds of students- economics students, law students, American exchange students- and I think the MSP students are quite special.

When you look at the amount of choice that students have at the Maastricht Science Programme to build their own curriculum, coupled with the advising and the academic resources, the potential is limitless. It is a bit daring to give that high degree of freedom to students.

We try to educate people who can solve the global challenges of today and of the future. I don't think that my generation of scientists, who focus on one subject in very great detail, is capable of doing that.

At the MSP, you’re not just a number. We try to create an environment for students where you feel heard, where you feel safe and where you can work on becoming the best version of yourself—whatever you want to do in the future.

I love introducing students to the world of research and seeing them light up and enjoy themselves while learning to produce publishable work.

Do you recall that one moment that your life changed forever?