Transformation

NWO CHAINS 2024’s theme is ‘Transformation’. A theme that is not just chosen randomly but rather well thought out, as it plays such a pivotal role within chemical research, the conference itself and in the lives of our participants as we will explain below.

First of all, ‘Transformation’ refers directly to transformation at a molecular level of course: a chemical reaction. Chemical reactions form the cornerstone of the work that is done within chemical research and by the chemical community that, every year, flocks together at NWO CHAINS.

Secondly, there are many other transformations to be observed that are relevant for NWO CHAINS and the (Dutch) chemistry community. Consider the fundamental curiosity that is transformed into new knowledge and better understanding during these two days of interaction. Ultimately, these findings may contribute to the transitions that society needs to undergo. Just think about the key role chemistry plays in this, through green hydrogen, batteries and circular plastics, for example. At NWO CHAINS there is room for chemical research with both scientific and societal impact.

Not only is chemistry advancing, the way chemical research is done, is also moving forward and transforming. Developments such as big data, artificial intelligence, automation and robotics are changing, that is transforming, the way chemists carry out their studies. At NWO CHAINS there is ample room for these developments. New this year e.g. is the opportunity to present a demo: academic researchers are given the opportunity to demonstrate and showcase either hardware or software, for example, that has been developed in their research group, which may change procedures and techniques.

Transformation also plays a role at both the personal and professional level of our participants. The community transforms talented students into independent researchers. NWO CHAINS facilitates many opportunities for young researchers to present their work in a parallel or poster session. New this year is the added pitch podium that gives upcoming researchers an extra chance to shine. After all, young researchers hold and represent the future.

A final transformation has been NWO CHAINS itself. As some of you will notice, a fresh new house style has been developed oozing the essence of the conference. And we have transitioned back to our own national conference traditionally held in early December, after the success of the combined conference IUPAC|CHAINS in August 2023 (and previous COVID-influenced editions).