On March 22, 2024, the vibrant halls of the UvA Faculty of Science played host to the Amsterdam Chemistry Innovation Day (ACID) – a dynamic convergence of academia, students, and industry professionals from across the Netherlands. With approximately 300 attendees in attendance, the event proved to be a great platform for professional networking, knowledge exchange, and career development.
The day commenced with a warm welcome from our host, Luyten van den Berg, setting the stage for an intellectually stimulating lineup of speakers. Professor Marcel Vreeswijk, Vice Dean of the Faculty, showcased Science Park as the epicenter of groundbreaking research spanning "Life, the Universe, and Everything."
Assistant Professor Francesco Mutti delivered an impassioned keynote challenging prevalent misconceptions surrounding biocatalysis. Francesco emphasized the transformative potential of enzymes across diverse industries, from pharmaceuticals to plastic recycling. In conclusion, he advocated for more interdisciplinary collaboration to harness enzymes’ benefits fully, underscoring the pivotal role of metagenomics, DNA technologies, and AI in unlocking sustainable catalytic solutions on a large scale.
The stage was then taken by Taisa Hansen (CIO of Lipton Teas and Infusions), who shared insights into the company innovation journey and its alignment with Amsterdam Science Park. Addressing R&D challenges, particularly in climate and social sustainability, the presentation offered a glimpse into the evolving landscape of the global food industry, and into the goals and challenges to achieve a global net zero.
The “Port in Transition” session illuminated the attendees showcasing the efforts of the Port of Amsterdam to become a hub for fuels of new generation, spanning from H2 to biogas, e-fuels, and SAFs. Renewi Organics presented their recent investments in Amsterdam, unveiling plans for a new fermentation plant to produce lactic acid from organic waste.
From the frontier territories of chemistry, biology, and AI, the “Food Transition” session covered cutting-edge research and scaled applications. Ful Food presented their algae-based products, and the biotech research going on. Researchers from AIMMS-VU discussed how AI and precision fermentation can help us move faster toward plant-based alternatives (like cheese) that meet consumers’ tastes.
An inspiring panel discussion on “CO2 Valorisation” welcomed on the stage researchers and R&D leaders in the field of CO2 capture and utilization, including electrochemical and biotech methods. Our key takeaways are: clean sources of energy are the gateway to success, and more research is needed for scalable solutions (free of critical raw materials, able to work with harsh conditions, robust and stable).
A session on “Quantum horizons” for chemistry invited the audience to dream about a promising future for computational chemistry. The speakers covered a range of software and hardware solutions for quantum chemistry already existing and discussed diverse perspectives on pressing scientific challenges in the field.
The morning started with a crowded job market, with 15 companies scouting for talent in Chemistry and LifeSciences (LS). 8 organizations pitched their company culture and openings during a 2h open session. After the lunch break, Maikel Boot inspired the youngest minds in the audience with the lessons learned during his journey transitioning from academia to a pharma company. UvA, VU, and InHolland presented their chemistry curricula and asked for feedback, shaping the perfect profile of “the chemist of the future”.
Ana Luzaic from Open Kitchen Labs hosted a panel discussion with three female founders on the importance of entrepreneurship in science, including aspects of inclusivity. In conclusion, Young Innovators of Medicines got the students excited about the different career paths and opportunities that the LS industry has to offer in the Netherlands and beyond.
Moments of reflection and knowledge exchange punctuated the day, often accompanied by food and drinks. Networking sessions facilitated organic connections, fostering a community-driven ethos of collaboration and growth.
ACN has a history of more than 10 years of existence, but the current brand was born on ACID two years ago! As we like celebrating milestones, we gladly offered special cupcakes for what we feel is our birthday. What better way than celebrating with old and new friends? We will continue with the mission of creating connections in the areas of Chemistry for Sustainability, Health, and AI, with a special eye for applications and real-life problems that can be solved by science.
The energy and commitment during the whole day were tangible. Students and professionals attended with openness and the mindset of connecting, sharing, and learning from each other. As we bid farewell, we extend heartfelt gratitude to the organizing committee, speakers, and contributors for orchestrating a truly enriching event. Until next year, let us continue to bring people together, connect and speak up!
Photo gallery by Monique Kooijmans
