Professor Thomas Cleij reappointed as Dean of the Faculty of Science and Engineering

The Executive Board of Maastricht University has reappointed Prof. Dr. Thomas Cleij as Dean of the Faculty of Science and Engineering. Thomas will continue to lead the faculty until March 2031.

Since its establishment in 2018, the Faculty of Science and Engineering (FSE) has grown steadily. The faculty now counts more than 3,700 students and 600 staff members active throughout the province. In addition to Maastricht, the faculty is present in Venlo, Sittard-Geleen and Heerlen.
 

Steady growth

Thomas has led FSE from the very beginning and has therefore played a key role in the faculty’s success. Thanks to the efforts of all staff members, FSE now plays a prominent role in the Dutch science and engineering landscape. New initiatives and degree programmes have been launched not only in Maastricht, but also in Venlo, Heerlen and at the Chemelot Campus in Sittard-Geleen.

Reflecting on his goals for the coming term, the dean says: “We want to strengthen the existing departments and programmes, for example by optimising the governance structure to better fit a large and stable faculty. In addition, we are working towards closer collaboration with regional partners, particularly in the medical field, both with MUMC+ and Zuyderland.”

“Overall, the faculty will continue to grow slightly, especially outside Maastricht. At the same time, the focus is increasingly shifting towards consolidation, with attention to reducing workload by simplifying, optimising and digitalising processes,” says Thomas. Consolidation, however, does not mean standing still. “Agility and innovative capacity will become an even stronger part of our faculty’s DNA.”

The dean is starting what is, at Maastricht University, an exceptional third term. He attributes this mainly to the desire for continuity within the FSE community and the Executive Board. “With the arrival of our vice dean, Harm Askens, the upcoming redistribution of responsibilities within the board, and the turbulent times facing higher education, stability is important,” Thomas concludes.

Acting Rector Magnificus Jan Smits, on behalf of the Executive Board, says: “Although a third term as dean is exceptional, there is every reason in this case for Thomas’s reappointment. It provides stability and confirms the important and inspiring role Thomas plays in the further development of the faculty. The Executive Board looks forward to continuing the collaboration in the years ahead.”