Henri van Kalkeren, PhD at the Radboud University Nijmegenworking on CatchBio project:
Selective catalytic substitution of hydroxyl groups by C- or N- nucleophiles
project leader:
Floris Rutjes
cluster: Fine-Pharma
Short CV
After obtaining my VWO diploma in 2003, I started my bachelors in chemistry at the Radboud University Nijmegen. In 2006 I continued at the same university with a master study in organic chemistry. For this, I performed an internship in the group of prof. dr. Floris Rutjes to study approaches towards the total synthesis of integric acid. Another internship was done at DSM N.V. at the department of innovative synthesis and catalysis. After obtained my MSc. degree in 2008, I now pursue a PhD degree in the group of prof. dr. Rutjes.
What is the biggest challenge, or what fascinates you the most about this project?
Not only do we need to develop new catalytic reactions, we also need to apply this on highly functionalized molecules.
What is your future career ambition?
I have always been intrigued by science and have always been curious to find true reasons behind natural occurrences. I really enjoy the freedom and atmosphere within academia to feed my curiosity. I also really like working together with talented master students. For these reasons, I hope to continue working within academia after obtaining my PhD.
How do you like to spend your time when not working on your research?
Mountainbiking, listening to and discovering new music.