Jeroen Cornelissen, who has recently retired as the Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Materials Chemistry A, B, and C, has shared his concerns about the potential loss of expertise and infrastructure in academic settings, notably at the University of Twente (UT). Cornelissen highlights the importance of specialized equipment like Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) devices for determining the molecular composition of substances. He likens the situation to foregoing the use of a spirit level during brickwork training, emphasizing the critical role of such tools in education and research.
Cornelissen also expresses worries about the impending shortage of experienced staff, which he believes will lead to a decline in the quality of education and the supervision of ongoing research. This situation creates uncertainty among the remaining students and makes the UT a less attractive destination for new students.Additionally, the burden on the remaining staff increases significantly.
Another concern Cornelissen raises is the lack of attention to gender diversity. He notes that while there have been relatively many female colleagues, the gender diversity within the faculty is skewed, indicating a need for better balance.
Looking ahead, Cornelissen is considering new career steps, possibly in a management position or as a manager. Although others have suggested he could be a dean for the faculty, he acknowledges that the UT already has two deans, making a third position seem excessive.
Cornelissen plans to send an email to announce his retirement and will be present for a lecture the following day, showing his continued commitment to the academic community even as he transitions to a new phase in his career.
Expert Interview: Jeroen Cornelissen on Academic Infrastructure and Diversity
Table of Contents
Jeroen Cornelissen, who has recently retired as the Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of materials Chemistry A, B, and C, shares his insights and concerns about the potential loss of expertise and infrastructure in academic settings, notably at the University of Twente (UT). His thoughts on specialized equipment, staff shortages, and gender diversity provide valuable perspectives on the future of higher education and research.
Specialized Equipment in Academia
Senior Editor: In your recent statements, you emphasized the importance of specialized equipment like Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) devices for determining the molecular composition of substances. can you elaborate on why these tools are so critical in academic settings?
Jeroen Cornelissen: Absolutely. Specialized equipment like NMR devices are indispensable for advanced research and education in materials science. They provide precise measurements that are essential for understanding the molecular structure and composition of materials. Without such tools, we’re essentially trying to build a complex structure without a spirit level—it’s simply not feasible to achieve the accuracy and precision needed for cutting-edge research and training.
Staff Shortages and Their Impact
Senior Editor: You also expressed worries about the impending shortage of experienced staff. How do you think this will affect the quality of education and ongoing research?
Jeroen Cornelissen: the shortage of experienced staff is a meaningful concern. It not only affects the quality of education but also the supervision of ongoing research. Students rely heavily on the expertise and guidance of their professors. With fewer experienced staff, the burden on the remaining faculty increases significantly, leading to potential burnout and a decline in the quality of both teaching and research. This uncertainty also makes the university less attractive to new students and researchers.
Gender Diversity in Academia
Senior Editor: Another concern you raised is the lack of attention to gender diversity within the faculty. What steps do you think should be taken to achieve a better balance?
Jeroen Cornelissen: Gender diversity is crucial for fostering innovation and ensuring that different perspectives are represented. While there have been relatively many female colleagues, the balance is still skewed. Institutions should actively promote diversity through targeted recruitment efforts,mentorship programs,and a supportive work surroundings. It’s essential to create an inclusive culture where everyone feels valued and has the opportunity to grow.
Future Career Steps
Senior Editor: Looking ahead, what are your plans for your next career step?
Jeroen Cornelissen: I am considering several options, including management positions or roles as a manager. While some have suggested I could be a dean, I believe the UT already has two deans, making a third position seem excessive. I am open to new challenges and opportunities where I can continue to contribute to the academic community.
Conclusion
Senior Editor: what message would you like to convey to your colleagues and students as you retire?
jeroen Cornelissen: I want to express my gratitude for the opportunity to serve as the Editor-in-Chief and for the support I’ve received throughout my career. I encourage my colleagues to continue advocating for the importance of specialized equipment and experienced staff. To my students, I urge you to remain curious, persistent, and committed to excellence in your research and studies. The future of academia depends on your dedication and innovation.