My background is biology; I studied biology in Germany at the University of Rostock and finished my PhD in molecular microbiology at the University of Amsterdam. During my PhD I gained already some experience in interdisciplinary research: I studied the biological function of a photoactive protein but also the characteristics of this protein itself by using techniques from chemistry and physics and even computer science. This puts high demands on the researcher, not only to get acquainted with knowledge and concepts from other disciplines but also to combine them for a better understanding of the problem.

For me, forensic science is an interesting and challenging field. The decisions made by scientists can have an enormous input on the life of people. With the Master’s Forensic science, we designed a programme for our students that asks high demand. I see students struggling when they enter the Master’s, but when I see them finally achieving the goals and ultimately starting a career in the forensic field that gives me satisfaction. For the students it is not only a journey in forensic science but also in their personal development.