Heynderickx joined Philips in 1987, and has a track record of scientific research with the company over the past 20 years. Her work covers a broad range of subjects, from the modeling of flow behavior in liquid crystal polymers for injection molding of components for electronic equipment through to optimizing the visual perception and experience of display and lighting systems.

She was appointed in 2005 as Guest Research Professor at Southeast University in Nanjing (China), and as part-time professor at Delft University of Technology. In 2013 Heynderickx was appointed as professor in the IE&IS department at TU/e. She works in the Human-Technology Interaction group, and is holder of the Perception in Human Technology Interaction chair.

As new dean, Heynderickx sees her role as that of a bridge-builder. The IE&IS department consists of two schools, the School of Industrial Engineering and the School of Innovation Sciences. “I believe it will be valuable to look for areas in which our two schools can complement each other in terms of both research and education. First of all I intend to take the time to listen to the views of the people in the department, after which I’ll be in a good position to take decisions and implement them.”

She feels honored with her appointment and the request of the Executive Board to take up the position of dean. “I’m looking forward to this new challenge, and I particularly want to find out where I can further strengthen the profile of the department, both within TU/e and outside it.”

TU/e Rector Magnificus Hans van Duijn is pleased with the appointment. “As the new dean, professor Heynderickx will be a strong leader for the department. She is a good listener with the ability to act decisive. Her Philips background means we will have a new dean with a broad outlook covering both industry and the university. The Executive Board is sure that the combination with the vice deans Anthonie Meijers and Jan de Jonge will provide effective leadership that is ready for the challenges of the future.”

Source: TU/e press team.