On May 22, 2025, during the UT Week of Education, our colleague Janneke Alers (S&T) was named Teacher of the Year at the University of Twente!
The competition followed its familiar format: finalists each gave a short lecture, followed by a Q&A with the jury and audience. Together, their votes determined the winner. Unlike in previous years, the title no longer comes with a monetary prize, but the winner receives a certificate and will represent the UT in the national competition.
Janneke’s mini-lecture focused on biology and cell research. She explained the structure of cells, the reasons why we grow cells in labs, and the importance of working under sterile conditions. She also discussed topics such as the use of cultured animal cells and different cell types, all in an accessible and engaging way. In her closing remarks, she stressed the importance of introducing students to cell culture early in their studies.
We are proud that Janneke represented our faculty in the final and congratulate her on this well-deserved recognition!