Research sponsor NWO has awarded 89 experienced researchers a Vidi grant of 800,000 euros. Six of these are affiliated with Erasmus University. This will enable them to build up their own research group.
At the Faculty of Social Sciences, two researchers were awarded a grant: Jeroen van der Waal (Public Administration and Sociology) and Renske Keizer (Sociology). Erasmus MC also received two grants, for Natasja de Groot (Cardiology), Judith Rientjes and Robin Peeters (Endocrinology). Finally, Anne Gielen (General Economics) was also awarded a Vidi grant.
590 applications
590 researchers applied for a Vidi grant: 376 men and 214 women. In the end, 52 men (14 percent chance) and 37 women (17 percent chance) received a grant.
In the selection, NWO assessed the researchers, the originality of their research proposal, the expected scientific impact and the potential for applying the knowledge.
The researchers work in many different disciplines. Their research includes studies into the origin of the structure of the very early universe, the reason for ageing diseases, the influence of satire and how parents explain the dependency on benefits to their children.
Leiden and Utrecht
The universities of Leiden and Utrecht received the most Vidi grants. The technical universities scored well this time, while Radboud University Nijmegen and the University of Amsterdam did less well by comparison.
The grants are part of the so-called Innovational Research Incentives Scheme of Veni, Vidi and Vici grants for new, experienced and very experienced researchers.
