As of January 2026, Stefan Kooij has been appointed as the new 4TU+.CEE leader at the University of Twente (UT). He succeeds Cindy Poortman, who held this position since February 2021. Stefan is an associate professor at the Faculty of Science and Technology, where his research focuses on experimental surface science and nanoscale interfacial phenomena. In addition to these research activities, Stefan has an extensive track record as an educator and educational leader, actively shaping science and engineering education. He previously served as programme director of Applied Physics and as vice-dean education in the Faculty of Science and Technology. Beyond the university, he is engaged in multiple roles connected to secondary education and is also actively involved in the ChipTech Talent programme.
I look forward to working with my fellow board members as we continue to shape the future of 4TU+.CEE in the upcoming 2027-2030 strategic period. It offers the opportunity to build stronger coherence across our institutions, and to align local initiatives and activities with the broader ambitions of 4TU+.CEE. By doing so, we strengthen the network of education professionals who are committed to advancing engineering education, by sharing expertise and fostering a collaborative landscape for educational innovation.