Visit of the Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management

On 6 March 2026, the Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management visited the University of Twente. The visit which was organised by Dr.ir. Timo Meinders, Managing Director MESA+ Institute started at MESA+ Institute, followed by a tour of the NanoLab, where the visitors received an introduction to ongoing research and facilities.

After the tour, the department of Civil Engineering and Management (CEM) had the opportunity to meet and engage with a large group of young officials. Prof. Dr. Suzanne Hulscher, Chairperson of CEM, opened the session with an introduction to CEM, the educational programmes, its different scientific groups and their activities. Afterwards, CEM researchers presented their work.

The “Young CEM” presenters and their presentation titles were:

• PhD candidate Wout Ploeg (MFS group) - OR ELSE: Sand waves, sand extraction, and cohesive sediment
• PhD candidate Carlos David Rivera (CRIS group) – Navigating the interactions for cross-sectoral integration in infrastructure policy across Dutch government ministries: Is more collaboration truly the key to success?
• Postdoc Marte Stoorvogel (MFS group) - Salt marshes for nature‑based coastal protection
• PhD candidate Leon Besseling (MFS group) – Dike breaches: fast flood modelling during an emergency

Their presentations were very well received, sparking lively discussions and many thoughtful questions from the visitors. These discussions continued informally during lunch, where the interaction remained dynamic and engaging. The visitors expressed strong interest in the presented research and indicated that they will stay in contact with the presenters for follow‑up questions.

The visit offered a valuable moment of exchange and highlighted the Ministry’s interest in the ongoing research within CEM and the broader scientific and educational strengths of the University of Twente.