Ron Heeren appointed fellow of the Netherlands Academy of Engineering

International top tier

According to the NAE, Heeren is among ‘the international top tier of engineers who succeed in translating fundamental research into technological innovations with major societal impact. He is a globally recognised pioneer in molecular imaging and analytical technology.’

His particular strength lies in the interdisciplinary development of imaging mass spectrometry, a technique that makes it possible to reveal the chemical composition of tissues in a kind of map. This enables clinicians to identify diseased tissue more quickly and to follow how it develops. His work has led to new standards in medical and analytical imaging, and has resulted in multiple patents and prestigious awards.

The selection committee praises Heeren for bridging the entire innovation chain, from fundamental laboratory research to applications ultimately used in hospitals and industry. His talent for bringing people together as a leader is also seen as an example of the engineering mindset that the NAE champions.

Master’s programme in Maastricht

UM and M4i invest not only in fundamental research, but also in the next generation of scientists. This is why a new master’s programme in imaging engineering has been launched at UM’s Faculty of Science and Engineering (FSE), in close collaboration with M4i. Students learn to design and improve instruments, work with advanced technologies and develop new applications. The programme attracts international students and is helping the region to grow into a centre of imaging technology.

Collaboration with HFML-Felix

Heeren also works closely with HFML-Felix in Nijmegen, a world-renowned research centre equipped with extremely powerful magnets and lasers. By combining this technology with M4i’s imaging expertise, researchers can study molecules and materials in even greater detail. The collaboration enables the visualisation of new molecules and stimulates innovative research in the Netherlands. Recently, Heeren’s team received one of the first grants awarded from the specially established Incentive Fund of HFML-FELIX, a new institute of the Dutch Research Council.

Links with Limburg’s business community

An important part of Heeren’s work is building bridges between science and industry. A good example is the collaboration with HTX Imaging, which commissions equipment from the company AIM in Brunssum. HTX Imaging produces components and instruments used in mass spectrometry. The partnership allows M4i to test and refine new ideas quickly, while enabling HTX Imaging to translate the latest innovations into products for the global market. This creates a strong dynamic: M4i gains easier access to state-of-the-art technology, and the province of Limburg benefits from growth in high-tech jobs and economic activity.