To celebrate 35 years of STW, this year there are two winners. Apart from Steinbuch, Suzanne Hulscher of the University of Twente is a recipient of the award. On Wednesday STW announced the winners, citing that the awards are being given for their technical-scientific research and the way they bridge science and practice. The laureates will receive their awards during the STW annual conference on 24 November.

“I feel very honored,” said Steinbuch in reaction to the announcement. “The award underlines the importance connection that science has to make with society and industry. That is something I champion. That I am now receiving this award is encouragement for this approach.”

Maarten Steinbuch is professor of Control Systems Technology at TU/e and the work that he and his group do in the field of advanced motion control (the control of advanced engineering systems where extreme precision and speed are crucial) enjoys a considerable international reputation. Examples of this field include machines that produce micro-electronics and nuclear fusion reactors. His group also develops sophisticated surgical robots that are now getting to market via spin-off companies.

Creating a bridge

STW praises the way that Steinbuch creates a bridge between science and industry, and their cooperation in solving societal challenges. In his research, Steinbuch works with leading companies like ASML, Philips, TNO and Océ as well as with many SME’s. It is due in part to Steinbuch that the Netherlands has become a hotspot for developments centering on electric driving, precision systems control and microsurgery.

In view of his services as a professor, in 2013 TU/e gave Steinbuch the honorary title of Distinguished Professor. He is also scientific director of the TU/e High Tech Systems Center and of the 3TU High Tech Systems Research Center as well as a member of the AutomotiveNL sector organization. The general public knows him through his many media appearances.

STW has awarded the Simon Stevin Master since 1998. The list of Masters also includes Philip de Goey (2010), Jaap Schouten (2006) and Arthur van Roermund (2004) of TU/e.

Source: TU/e press team