join forces with Amolf
Collaboration and partnerships
AMOLF’s research is deeply collaborative. We partner with many universities and research institutes, and we collaborate with industry and societal partners in the Netherlands and internationally.
These partnerships and collaborations enable us to explore new research areas and connect fundamental discoveries to societal applications. Partnering with AMOLF offers research institutes access to world-class fundamental research in physics, chemistry and materials science. For companies, collaborating with AMOLF provides early access to cutting-edge scientific insights that can underpin future technologies and applications.
AMOLF collaborates with other organizations in various ways. Below, we describe three types of collaboration:
- Academic partnerships
- Collaborations with industry
- Broad national consortia involving industrial, academic and societal partners
Quick links
Academic partnerships
AMOLF partners with many universities in the Netherlands and abroad, such as University of Amsterdam and University of Cambridge. To strengthen these ties, AMOLF hosts guest researchers in part-time group leader positions that connect AMOLF with university research groups. Our scientists also work closely with other research institutes, such as CWI (Research Institute for mathematics & computer science), DIFFER (Dutch Institute for Fundamental Energy Research), and Hubrecht Institute.
The image shows examples of organizations that collaborate with AMOLF, and the next section provides examples of academic partnerships.
Examples of joint academic research programs
Program name
Program name
Single-cell tracking in organoids
Single-cell tracking in organoids
Program objective
Program objective
To follow all organoids cells in time and space as they divide, move, and differentiate, using AI-driven analysis of 3D imaging
To follow all organoids cells in time and space as they divide, move, and differentiate, using AI-driven analysis of 3D imaging
Research area
Research area
Autonomous Matter; Organoid technology
Autonomous Matter; Organoid technology
Partners
Partners
Hubrecht Institute; University of Amsterdam; Maxima Center; Utrecht Medical Center; Organoid biology
Hubrecht Institute; University of Amsterdam; Maxima Center; Utrecht Medical Center; Organoid biology
Contribution of AMOLF
Contribution of AMOLF
Development of AI-driven cell tracking technology; 3D imaging of organoids; Study of organizational principles in organoids
Development of AI-driven cell tracking technology; 3D imaging of organoids; Study of organizational principles in organoids
Current program phase
Current program phase
Second generation technology established and multiple studies on intestinal organoids published
Second generation technology established and multiple studies on intestinal organoids published
Scientific and/or societal impact
Scientific and/or societal impact
Insight in the organizational principles of cells in organs, how this is maintained dynamically in renewing tissues, and how this fails during conditions including chronic inflammation and cancer; To provide new routes for medical intervention
Insight in the organizational principles of cells in organs, how this is maintained dynamically in renewing tissues, and how this fails during conditions including chronic inflammation and cancer; To provide new routes for medical intervention
Contact
Contact
Sander Tans (email: S.Tans@amolf.nl); Jeroen van Zon (email: J.v.Zon@amolf.nl)
Sander Tans (email: S.Tans@amolf.nl); Jeroen van Zon (email: J.v.Zon@amolf.nl)
Program name
Program name
Center-to-center collaboration with the University of Cambridge
Center-to-center collaboration with the University of Cambridge
Program objective
Program objective
Optimize optoelectronic devices using nanophotonic strategies
Optimize optoelectronic devices using nanophotonic strategies
Research area
Research area
Sustainable Energy Materials
Sustainable Energy Materials
Partners and their key role
Partners and their key role
Optoelectronics group, University of Cambridge: Development of highly efficient solar cells and LEDs; Spectroscopic investigations into the material properties
Optoelectronics group, University of Cambridge: Development of highly efficient solar cells and LEDs; Spectroscopic investigations into the material properties
Contribution of AMOLF
Contribution of AMOLF
Development of nanophotonic designs and their fabrication; Electrical spectroscopy on perovskite devices; Optical spectroscopy under pressure
Development of nanophotonic designs and their fabrication; Electrical spectroscopy on perovskite devices; Optical spectroscopy under pressure
Current program phase
Current program phase
Completed. Informal continuation of the collaboration in several projects.
Completed. Informal continuation of the collaboration in several projects.
Scientific and/or societal impact
Scientific and/or societal impact
Several significant scientific advances toward LEDs with directional and chiral emission; Perovskite materials growth with desired properties (e.g. crystal orientation, epitaxial growth); Enhanced understanding of the degradation mechanisms of perovskite solar cells
Several significant scientific advances toward LEDs with directional and chiral emission; Perovskite materials growth with desired properties (e.g. crystal orientation, epitaxial growth); Enhanced understanding of the degradation mechanisms of perovskite solar cells
Contact
Contact
Bruno Ehrler (email: B.Ehrler@amolf.nl)
Bruno Ehrler (email: B.Ehrler@amolf.nl)
Program name
Program name
AMOLF-ARCNL joint program
AMOLF-ARCNL joint program
Program objective
Program objective
Foster AMOLF-ARCNL collaboration, and engage AMOLF’s expertise in areas relevant for ARCNL and ASML
Foster AMOLF-ARCNL collaboration, and engage AMOLF’s expertise in areas relevant for ARCNL and ASML
Research area
Research area
Nanophotonics for metrology, imaging, inspection and materials analysis; Mechanical metamaterials
Nanophotonics for metrology, imaging, inspection and materials analysis; Mechanical metamaterials
Partners and their key role
Partners and their key role
AMOLF and ARCNL: co-supervision of PhD students, co-definition of problems'ASML: industry partner with a vested interested in expertise and outcomes
AMOLF and ARCNL: co-supervision of PhD students, co-definition of problems'ASML: industry partner with a vested interested in expertise and outcomes
Contribution of AMOLF
Contribution of AMOLF
Host the junior researchers in AMOLF research groups; Provide expertise and experimental infrastructure to perform the research
Host the junior researchers in AMOLF research groups; Provide expertise and experimental infrastructure to perform the research
Current program phase
Current program phase
Entering the third phase (program started 2016, with student generations graduating 2021 and 2025/2026)
Entering the third phase (program started 2016, with student generations graduating 2021 and 2025/2026)
Scientific and/or societal impact
Scientific and/or societal impact
New insight in advanced materials and high-tech instrumentation that will impact technologies surrounding EUV lithography
New insight in advanced materials and high-tech instrumentation that will impact technologies surrounding EUV lithography
Contact
Contact
Femius Koenderink (email: F.Koenderink@amolf.nl)
Femius Koenderink (email: F.Koenderink@amolf.nl)
Program name
Program name
EVOLF – Evolving life from non-life (multiple partners)
EVOLF – Evolving life from non-life (multiple partners)
Program objective
Program objective
At the heart of EVOLF is a grand quest to answer one of humanity's most profound questions: What is life? We seek to bridge the gap between non-life and life by creating the first-ever living synthetic cell.
At the heart of EVOLF is a grand quest to answer one of humanity's most profound questions: What is life? We seek to bridge the gap between non-life and life by creating the first-ever living synthetic cell.
Research area
Research area
Bottom-up synthetic biology; Biochemistry; Biophysics; Microbiology; Ethics
Bottom-up synthetic biology; Biochemistry; Biophysics; Microbiology; Ethics
Partners
Partners
A large academic consortium comprising AMOLF, TU Delft, WUR, RUG, Radboud University, the Hubrecht Institute, and VU Amsterdam
A large academic consortium comprising AMOLF, TU Delft, WUR, RUG, Radboud University, the Hubrecht Institute, and VU Amsterdam
Contribution of AMOLF
Contribution of AMOLF
Biophysical expertise and optimization of cell-free translation-transcription; Lipid vesicle generation; Building and analyzing minimal cell models
Biophysical expertise and optimization of cell-free translation-transcription; Lipid vesicle generation; Building and analyzing minimal cell models
Current program phase
Current program phase
Running (10-year program, started in 2024)
Running (10-year program, started in 2024)
Scientific and/or societal impact
Scientific and/or societal impact
This groundbreaking work follows a bottom-up approach, building complex assemblies from biomolecules, a method pioneered by Dutch researchers. Achieving this goal will revolutionize our understanding of life, akin to the discovery of DNA's structure or the human genome. This breakthrough further promises advances in sustainable biotechnology and biomedicine.
This groundbreaking work follows a bottom-up approach, building complex assemblies from biomolecules, a method pioneered by Dutch researchers. Achieving this goal will revolutionize our understanding of life, akin to the discovery of DNA's structure or the human genome. This breakthrough further promises advances in sustainable biotechnology and biomedicine.
Learn more
Learn more
Website EVOLF: https://www.evolf.life/
Website EVOLF: https://www.evolf.life/
Contact
Contact
Kristina Ganzinger (email: K.Ganzinger@amolf.nl)
Kristina Ganzinger (email: K.Ganzinger@amolf.nl)
Program name
Program name
Mechanisms of co-translational assembly of multi-protein complexes (CoTransComplex)
Mechanisms of co-translational assembly of multi-protein complexes (CoTransComplex)
Program objective
Program objective
To elucidate how cooperation between ribosomes enables the formation of multi-protein complexes
To elucidate how cooperation between ribosomes enables the formation of multi-protein complexes
Research area
Research area
Autonomous Matter; Biophysics
Autonomous Matter; Biophysics
Partners and their key role
Partners and their key role
Bukau-Kramer group, Heidelberg University: Ribosome profiling that shows ribosome cooperation across the genome; Ban group, ETH Zurich: Cryo-EM to show the atomic and structural basis
Bukau-Kramer group, Heidelberg University: Ribosome profiling that shows ribosome cooperation across the genome; Ban group, ETH Zurich: Cryo-EM to show the atomic and structural basis
Contribution of AMOLF
Contribution of AMOLF
Single-molecule techniques to show the dynamics at the molecular level that enables ribosome cooperation and complex formation
Single-molecule techniques to show the dynamics at the molecular level that enables ribosome cooperation and complex formation
Current program phase
Current program phase
Nearly mid-way. First papers have been published, several joint projects are under way. In total 21 PhD/PD positions
Nearly mid-way. First papers have been published, several joint projects are under way. In total 21 PhD/PD positions
Scientific and/or societal impact
Scientific and/or societal impact
Provides many researchers working on protein complexes globally with a novel hypothesis on their origin and failure. This includes essentially any disease, and is relevant to AI-generated protein design for novel therapeutics.
Provides many researchers working on protein complexes globally with a novel hypothesis on their origin and failure. This includes essentially any disease, and is relevant to AI-generated protein design for novel therapeutics.
Contact
Contact
Sander Tans (email: S.Tans@amolf.nl)
Sander Tans (email: S.Tans@amolf.nl)
Program name
Program name
HELIOS: High-throughput Experimentation with Light-Induced Optimization and Synthesis
HELIOS: High-throughput Experimentation with Light-Induced Optimization and Synthesis
Program objective
Program objective
To make highly efficient and stable halide perovskite solar cells using light to both make and measure the materials and devices
To make highly efficient and stable halide perovskite solar cells using light to both make and measure the materials and devices
Research area
Research area
Autonomous labs; AI/machine learning; Halide perovskite development; In situ spectroscopy
Autonomous labs; AI/machine learning; Halide perovskite development; In situ spectroscopy
Partners and their key role
Partners and their key role
AMOLF: develops automated deposition and measurement hardware; DIFFER: develops the algorithms to process and prepare the data for AI; CWI: develops AI models to provide the next set of experiments for the automated lab
AMOLF: develops automated deposition and measurement hardware; DIFFER: develops the algorithms to process and prepare the data for AI; CWI: develops AI models to provide the next set of experiments for the automated lab
Contribution of AMOLF
Contribution of AMOLF
Planning, building and operating the automated deposition and measurement hardware
Planning, building and operating the automated deposition and measurement hardware
Current program phase
Current program phase
The first generation system configuration is mostly finished and equipment is being ordered
The first generation system configuration is mostly finished and equipment is being ordered
Scientific and/or societal impact
Scientific and/or societal impact
The goal is to be able to make and measure solar cells a million times faster than with current state-of-the-art. This allows for the large volume of data needed to train AI models, which in turn can greatly accelerate scientific and technological progress.
The goal is to be able to make and measure solar cells a million times faster than with current state-of-the-art. This allows for the large volume of data needed to train AI models, which in turn can greatly accelerate scientific and technological progress.
Contact
Contact
Erik Garnett (email: E.Garnett@amolf.nl)
Erik Garnett (email: E.Garnett@amolf.nl)
Program name
Program name
ONCODE - AMOLF group leader Kristina Ganzinger (Physics of Cellular Interactions) is connected to Oncode Institute as Junior Investigator
ONCODE - AMOLF group leader Kristina Ganzinger (Physics of Cellular Interactions) is connected to Oncode Institute as Junior Investigator
Program objective
Program objective
Clinical urgency meets academic curiosity to outsmart cancer
Clinical urgency meets academic curiosity to outsmart cancer
Research area
Research area
Biophysics; Cancer research; Immunology
Biophysics; Cancer research; Immunology
Partners
Partners
Oncode Institute members and other Oncode groups, such as the Linde Meyaard Group at UMC Utrecht
Oncode Institute members and other Oncode groups, such as the Linde Meyaard Group at UMC Utrecht
Contribution of AMOLF
Contribution of AMOLF
Single-molecule expertise aimed at improving the efficiency of immunotherapies and expanding its applicability to more tumor types. Within Oncode, we collaborate with immunologists and cancer researchers.
Single-molecule expertise aimed at improving the efficiency of immunotherapies and expanding its applicability to more tumor types. Within Oncode, we collaborate with immunologists and cancer researchers.
Current program phase
Current program phase
The collaboration with another Oncode group, the Linde Meyaard Group at UMC Utrecht, has already produced various insights. For example, a US biotech company working on immunotherapies observed protein activity they did not understand. The Oncode collaborating parties discovered that two proteins, MARCO and LAIR-1, can interact on the same immune cell to control inhibitory signaling. This finding reveals a new way in which immune cells fine tune their behavior and helps explain how immune responses can be either restrained or released when needed.
The collaboration with another Oncode group, the Linde Meyaard Group at UMC Utrecht, has already produced various insights. For example, a US biotech company working on immunotherapies observed protein activity they did not understand. The Oncode collaborating parties discovered that two proteins, MARCO and LAIR-1, can interact on the same immune cell to control inhibitory signaling. This finding reveals a new way in which immune cells fine tune their behavior and helps explain how immune responses can be either restrained or released when needed.
Scientific and/or societal impact
Scientific and/or societal impact
Outsmarting cancer, impacting lives
Outsmarting cancer, impacting lives
Learn more
Learn more
AMOLF news item https://amolf.nl/news/immune-cells-regulate-themselves-through-a-newly-discovered-molecular-interaction; ONCODE news item: https://www.oncodeinstitute.nl/news/how-e-mail-biotech-world-led-discovery-helps-us-better-understand-cancer
AMOLF news item https://amolf.nl/news/immune-cells-regulate-themselves-through-a-newly-discovered-molecular-interaction; ONCODE news item: https://www.oncodeinstitute.nl/news/how-e-mail-biotech-world-led-discovery-helps-us-better-understand-cancer
Contact
Contact
Kristina Ganzinger (email: K.Ganzinger@amolf.nl)
Kristina Ganzinger (email: K.Ganzinger@amolf.nl)
Value for academic partners
Collaboration with AMOLF offers universities and research institutes access to world-class fundamental research in physics, chemistry and materials science. Partners benefit from:
- complementary expertise and facilities that may not be available in-house
- joint development of new research directions, often at the interface of disciplines
- increased visibility and impact through high-quality joint publications and international networks
These partnerships help accelerate scientific discovery while maintaining a strong foundation in fundamental research.
Industry collaboration
While AMOLF focuses on fundamental research, our scientists also work closely with industry partners, consortia, societal partners, and innovation networks. This enables us to translate fundamental insights into potential solutions for societal challenges in sustainability, materials innovation, energy, and health.
The image shows examples of organizations that collaborate with AMOLF, and the next section provides examples of industry partnerships.
Examples of collaborations that include industry partners
Program name
Program name
Fano4Nano - Fano resonance enhanced scatterometry for wafer metrology
Fano4Nano - Fano resonance enhanced scatterometry for wafer metrology
Program objective
Program objective
To develop new wafer metrology scattering targets to detect sub-nanometer shape and alignment parameters, using optical metasurface motifs with Fano resonances
To develop new wafer metrology scattering targets to detect sub-nanometer shape and alignment parameters, using optical metasurface motifs with Fano resonances
Research area
Research area
Optical scatterometry; Optical metasurfaces
Optical scatterometry; Optical metasurfaces
Partners
Partners
ASML: provides (1) insight in wafer metrology problems, (2) assistance with fast numerical solving, and (3) assistance with demonstrator experimental run in the field or at ASML research; TU/e: co-hosts one of the PhD students; JCMwave: provides a collaboration on complex-frequency normal mode analysis in resonant sensing
ASML: provides (1) insight in wafer metrology problems, (2) assistance with fast numerical solving, and (3) assistance with demonstrator experimental run in the field or at ASML research; TU/e: co-hosts one of the PhD students; JCMwave: provides a collaboration on complex-frequency normal mode analysis in resonant sensing
Contribution of AMOLF
Contribution of AMOLF
AMOLF hosts the PhD projects, and provides expertise in optical metasurfaces, electromagnetic theory, nanofabrication and scatterometry
AMOLF hosts the PhD projects, and provides expertise in optical metasurfaces, electromagnetic theory, nanofabrication and scatterometry
Current program phase
Current program phase
Program started fall 2024
Program started fall 2024
Scientific and/or societal impact
Scientific and/or societal impact
Motifs for new at-resolution wafer metrology scattering targets to detect sub-nanometer shape and alignment parameters. These could help improve the yield of semiconductor manufacturing, thereby reducing resource waste.
Motifs for new at-resolution wafer metrology scattering targets to detect sub-nanometer shape and alignment parameters. These could help improve the yield of semiconductor manufacturing, thereby reducing resource waste.
Contact
Contact
Femius Koenderink (email: F.Koenderink@amolf.nl)
Femius Koenderink (email: F.Koenderink@amolf.nl)
Program name
Program name
LEADDUST: Detecting lead in gunshot residues
LEADDUST: Detecting lead in gunshot residues
Program objective
Program objective
The LEADDUST consortium is an interdisciplinary collaboration that aims to develop a new, rapid, and sensitive method for the detection, quantification, and spatial visualization of lead in gunshot residues
The LEADDUST consortium is an interdisciplinary collaboration that aims to develop a new, rapid, and sensitive method for the detection, quantification, and spatial visualization of lead in gunshot residues
Research area
Research area
Chemistry
Chemistry
Partners and their key role
Partners and their key role
Dutch police: Provide operational expertise, realistic casework samples, and test scenarios; support benchmarking, validation, and assessment of applicability in real forensic and field contexts; Netherlands Forensic Institute (NFI): Contribute forensic standards, validation protocols, benchmarking, and evaluation of robustness and relevance within established forensic workflows; Forensic Investigation Amsterdam: Apply the test in active firearm investigations and deliver targeted feedback to improve functionality, usability, and operational performance; Van ’t Hoff Institute for Molecular Sciences (HIMS), University of Amsterdam: Provide expertise in forensic analytical chemistry and GSR analysis; ensure forensic validation and positioning versus existing techniques; Lumetallix: Drive valorization by developing the method into a practical test and designing specialized reagents for GSR visualization
Dutch police: Provide operational expertise, realistic casework samples, and test scenarios; support benchmarking, validation, and assessment of applicability in real forensic and field contexts; Netherlands Forensic Institute (NFI): Contribute forensic standards, validation protocols, benchmarking, and evaluation of robustness and relevance within established forensic workflows; Forensic Investigation Amsterdam: Apply the test in active firearm investigations and deliver targeted feedback to improve functionality, usability, and operational performance; Van ’t Hoff Institute for Molecular Sciences (HIMS), University of Amsterdam: Provide expertise in forensic analytical chemistry and GSR analysis; ensure forensic validation and positioning versus existing techniques; Lumetallix: Drive valorization by developing the method into a practical test and designing specialized reagents for GSR visualization
Contribution of AMOLF
Contribution of AMOLF
Co-lead fundamental research on perovskite formation, photoluminescence, and materials-based detection concepts underpinning the method
Co-lead fundamental research on perovskite formation, photoluminescence, and materials-based detection concepts underpinning the method
Current program phase
Current program phase
Ongoing
Ongoing
Scientific and/or societal impact
Scientific and/or societal impact
Use scientific findings to solve crimes
Use scientific findings to solve crimes
Contact
Contact
Wim Noorduin (email: W.Noorduin@amolf.nl)
Wim Noorduin (email: W.Noorduin@amolf.nl)
Program name
Program name
In-materia computing with networks Developing networks of physical elements that act like material bits for in-materia computing
In-materia computing with networks Developing networks of physical elements that act like material bits for in-materia computing
Program objective
Program objective
Developing networks of physical elements that act like material bits for in-materia computing
Developing networks of physical elements that act like material bits for in-materia computing
Research area
Research area
Information in Matter
Information in Matter
Partners and their key role
Partners and their key role
UT and TU/e: fabrication on electronic networks; Toyota: industrial partner
UT and TU/e: fabrication on electronic networks; Toyota: industrial partner
Contribution of AMOLF
Contribution of AMOLF
Design, concept, and development of learning algorithms
Design, concept, and development of learning algorithms
Current program phase
Current program phase
Projects starting early 2026
Projects starting early 2026
Scientific and/or societal impact
Scientific and/or societal impact
Scientific: Demonstrate novel approach to in-materia computing and self-learning systems; Societal: Demonstrate strategy for ultra-low energy computing
Scientific: Demonstrate novel approach to in-materia computing and self-learning systems; Societal: Demonstrate strategy for ultra-low energy computing
Contact
Contact
Martin van Hecke (email: M.v.hecke@amolf.nl); Nachi Stern (email: N.Stern@amolf.nl
Martin van Hecke (email: M.v.hecke@amolf.nl); Nachi Stern (email: N.Stern@amolf.nl
Program name
Program name
METAPIC - Electro-optically tunable photonic integrated meta circuits for ultrafast and precise wavefront shaping
METAPIC - Electro-optically tunable photonic integrated meta circuits for ultrafast and precise wavefront shaping
Program objective
Program objective
Develop a technology for very fast dynamical addressing of metasurfaces through integrated optics
Develop a technology for very fast dynamical addressing of metasurfaces through integrated optics
Research area
Research area
Nanophotonics; Metasurfaces; Integrated photonics
Nanophotonics; Metasurfaces; Integrated photonics
Partners
Partners
VU: program leader Dr. Imran Avci is expert in integrated photonics; Rapid Photonics: industry expertise in lithium niobate photonic integrated circuits
VU: program leader Dr. Imran Avci is expert in integrated photonics; Rapid Photonics: industry expertise in lithium niobate photonic integrated circuits
Contribution of AMOLF
Contribution of AMOLF
Metasurfaces for wavefront shaping, with expertise in design nanofabrication and scatterometry
Metasurfaces for wavefront shaping, with expertise in design nanofabrication and scatterometry
Current program phase
Current program phase
Starting 2026
Starting 2026
Scientific and/or societal impact
Scientific and/or societal impact
3D beam steering, real-time holography, and real-time reconfigurable optical AI, with applications in autonomous driving, AR, and ICT
3D beam steering, real-time holography, and real-time reconfigurable optical AI, with applications in autonomous driving, AR, and ICT
Contact
Contact
Femius Koenderink (email: F.Koenderink@amolf.nl)
Femius Koenderink (email: F.Koenderink@amolf.nl)
Program name
Program name
CARTTECH
CARTTECH
Program objective
Program objective
Exploit the quantitative imaging expertise at AMOLF (Ganzinger and Tans labs) and LUMICKs z-Movi technology to study the biophysical basis of CAR T cell function
Exploit the quantitative imaging expertise at AMOLF (Ganzinger and Tans labs) and LUMICKs z-Movi technology to study the biophysical basis of CAR T cell function
Research area
Research area
Biophysics; Immune-oncology
Biophysics; Immune-oncology
Partners and their key role
Partners and their key role
LUMICKS BV: z-Movi method
LUMICKS BV: z-Movi method
Contribution of AMOLF
Contribution of AMOLF
Develop advanced imaging methods based on fluorescence (TIRF) microscopy to visualize single receptors in cell-SLB interactions; Develop new cell-SLB adhesion strength measurement using LUMICKs's acoustic method (z-Movi)
Develop advanced imaging methods based on fluorescence (TIRF) microscopy to visualize single receptors in cell-SLB interactions; Develop new cell-SLB adhesion strength measurement using LUMICKs's acoustic method (z-Movi)
Current program phase
Current program phase
Running
Running
Scientific and/or societal impact
Scientific and/or societal impact
IDF filed, method paper submitted, running projects on combining imaging and z-Movi measurements and studying CAR T cells; New findings on CAR and TCR function might translate to new therapies in the future
IDF filed, method paper submitted, running projects on combining imaging and z-Movi measurements and studying CAR T cells; New findings on CAR and TCR function might translate to new therapies in the future
Contact
Contact
Kristina Ganzinger (email: K.Ganzinger@amolf.nl)
Kristina Ganzinger (email: K.Ganzinger@amolf.nl)
Program name
Program name
PERFORM: Roll-to-roll perovskite tandem solar cell technology using environmentally-friendly synthesis and flash annealing
PERFORM: Roll-to-roll perovskite tandem solar cell technology using environmentally-friendly synthesis and flash annealing
Program objective
Program objective
Develop materials that form the missing links to realize high-efficiency halide perovskite and tandem solar foils that can be made using a roll-to-roll process; Develop novel solution processes and workflows to fabricate tin-based low-bandgap perovskite layers and electrical contact layers. The new materials are made using a flash annealing process, which enables complete integration with a roll-to-roll process; Supported by economic and lifecycle analyses, this work helps the creation of a flexible perovskite solar foil industry in the Netherlands
Develop materials that form the missing links to realize high-efficiency halide perovskite and tandem solar foils that can be made using a roll-to-roll process; Develop novel solution processes and workflows to fabricate tin-based low-bandgap perovskite layers and electrical contact layers. The new materials are made using a flash annealing process, which enables complete integration with a roll-to-roll process; Supported by economic and lifecycle analyses, this work helps the creation of a flexible perovskite solar foil industry in the Netherlands
Research area
Research area
Sustainable Energy Materials
Sustainable Energy Materials
Partners and their key role
Partners and their key role
TNO Energy Transition: roll-to-roll demonstrator facility; University of Amsterdam: life cycle analysis; SparkNano (formerly SALDtech): contact layer deposition; Delmic/CL Solutions: materials characterization; Roland Berger: business plan development
TNO Energy Transition: roll-to-roll demonstrator facility; University of Amsterdam: life cycle analysis; SparkNano (formerly SALDtech): contact layer deposition; Delmic/CL Solutions: materials characterization; Roland Berger: business plan development
Contribution of AMOLF
Contribution of AMOLF
Development of materials, processing workflows, and new spectroscopic techniques; Perovskite solar cell device fabrication and testing; Coordinate knowledge transfer to partners
Development of materials, processing workflows, and new spectroscopic techniques; Perovskite solar cell device fabrication and testing; Coordinate knowledge transfer to partners
Current program phase
Current program phase
Project is in its second half. Knowledge transfer to TNO and industrial partners is ongoing as part of the SolarNL program
Project is in its second half. Knowledge transfer to TNO and industrial partners is ongoing as part of the SolarNL program
Scientific and/or societal impact
Scientific and/or societal impact
Development of key insights in perovskite and device layer synthesis, structure, properties, and stability; Transfer of knowledge to TNO and industrial users through SolarNL; Longer-term goal: establishment of a factory for perovskite solar foils in the Netherlands
Development of key insights in perovskite and device layer synthesis, structure, properties, and stability; Transfer of knowledge to TNO and industrial users through SolarNL; Longer-term goal: establishment of a factory for perovskite solar foils in the Netherlands
Contact
Contact
Albert Polman, PERFORM program leader (email: A.Polman@amolf.nl); Erik Garnett, HELIOS program leader (email: E.Garnett@amolf.nl)
Albert Polman, PERFORM program leader (email: A.Polman@amolf.nl); Erik Garnett, HELIOS program leader (email: E.Garnett@amolf.nl)
Program name
Program name
Achieving semiconductor stability from the ground up
Achieving semiconductor stability from the ground up
Program objective
Program objective
Introduce in situ light and electrical bias into EBSD measurements (Electron Backscatter Diffraction) to understand how halide perovskite crystals change under these stimuli
Introduce in situ light and electrical bias into EBSD measurements (Electron Backscatter Diffraction) to understand how halide perovskite crystals change under these stimuli
Research area
Research area
Instrumentation development; Semiconductor crystallographic characterization
Instrumentation development; Semiconductor crystallographic characterization
Partners
Partners
AMETEK EDAX; Amsterdam Scientific Instruments (ASI); CL Solutions
AMETEK EDAX; Amsterdam Scientific Instruments (ASI); CL Solutions
Contribution of AMOLF
Contribution of AMOLF
Making halide perovskite semiconductor samples; Conducting EBSD (crystal structure and orientation) mapping; Building the in situ tool
Making halide perovskite semiconductor samples; Conducting EBSD (crystal structure and orientation) mapping; Building the in situ tool
Current program phase
Current program phase
Final year
Final year
Scientific and/or societal impact
Scientific and/or societal impact
Developing new instruments that can help scientists understand their materials better
Developing new instruments that can help scientists understand their materials better
Learn more
Learn more
This is a long-standing collaboration that began with AMOLF building a prototype instrument using a novel direct electron detector from ASI, and ended up in a new product that EDAX is selling successfully on the market. This program is looking to further develop this commercial product for new applications in materials characterization.
This is a long-standing collaboration that began with AMOLF building a prototype instrument using a novel direct electron detector from ASI, and ended up in a new product that EDAX is selling successfully on the market. This program is looking to further develop this commercial product for new applications in materials characterization.
Contact
Contact
Erik Garnett (email: E.Garnett@amolf.nl)
Erik Garnett (email: E.Garnett@amolf.nl)
Program name
Program name
SHINER - Shining light on atomic scale processes for renewable energy
SHINER - Shining light on atomic scale processes for renewable energy
Program objective
Program objective
Understand how light drives atomic-scale changes in energy materials to improve solar energy conversion and catalytic performance
Understand how light drives atomic-scale changes in energy materials to improve solar energy conversion and catalytic performance
Research area
Research area
Sustainable Energy Materials; Advanced Imaging and Instrumentation
Sustainable Energy Materials; Advanced Imaging and Instrumentation
Partners and their key role
Partners and their key role
JEOL (industry partner): Builds and supports the advanced electron microscope used to study materials at the atomic scale under light; Amsterdam Scientific Instruments (ASI) (industry partner): Provides ultra-fast cameras that make it possible to capture rapid changes in materials during light exposure
JEOL (industry partner): Builds and supports the advanced electron microscope used to study materials at the atomic scale under light; Amsterdam Scientific Instruments (ASI) (industry partner): Provides ultra-fast cameras that make it possible to capture rapid changes in materials during light exposure
Contribution of AMOLF
Contribution of AMOLF
Development and operation of a unique TEM platform combining atomic-resolution imaging with laser excitation; Design and execution of in situ experiments to visualize light-induced atomic rearrangements in gold nanoparticles and perovskite materials; Integration of optical, electronic, and detector systems
Development and operation of a unique TEM platform combining atomic-resolution imaging with laser excitation; Design and execution of in situ experiments to visualize light-induced atomic rearrangements in gold nanoparticles and perovskite materials; Integration of optical, electronic, and detector systems
Current program phase
Current program phase
Ongoing (project duration 2024-2026)
Ongoing (project duration 2024-2026)
Scientific and/or societal impact
Scientific and/or societal impact
New insights into how light induces atomic-scale restructuring in materials used for solar cells and photocatalysts that: Support the development of more efficient, stable energy technologies; Strengthen the Netherlands’ position in advanced microscopy and renewable energy research
New insights into how light induces atomic-scale restructuring in materials used for solar cells and photocatalysts that: Support the development of more efficient, stable energy technologies; Strengthen the Netherlands’ position in advanced microscopy and renewable energy research
Contact
Contact
Wiebke Albrecht (email: W.Albrecht@amolf.nl)
Wiebke Albrecht (email: W.Albrecht@amolf.nl)
Program name
Program name
Start-up Lumetallix
Start-up Lumetallix
Program objective
Program objective
Developing lead detection technology invented at AMOLF for widespread deployment in the marketplace
Developing lead detection technology invented at AMOLF for widespread deployment in the marketplace
Research area
Research area
Chemistry
Chemistry
Partners and their key role
Partners and their key role
AMOLF researcher Wim Noorduin came up with the idea of using perovskites (solar cell material) for lead detection. Together with business developer Jeroen van den Bosch and PhD student Lukas Helmbrecht, he started the company Lumetallix. Testing for lead contamination is the first step to put an end to lead poisoning. After all, people are oftentimes unaware of the presence of lead particles.
AMOLF researcher Wim Noorduin came up with the idea of using perovskites (solar cell material) for lead detection. Together with business developer Jeroen van den Bosch and PhD student Lukas Helmbrecht, he started the company Lumetallix. Testing for lead contamination is the first step to put an end to lead poisoning. After all, people are oftentimes unaware of the presence of lead particles.
Contribution of AMOLF
Contribution of AMOLF
Lumetallix is now an independent company. Wim Noorduin was previously involved in Lumetallix and now acts as a scientific adviser.
Lumetallix is now an independent company. Wim Noorduin was previously involved in Lumetallix and now acts as a scientific adviser.
Current program phase
Current program phase
Lumetallix is now an independent company. Wim Noorduin was previously involved in Lumetallix and now acts as a scientific adviser.
Lumetallix is now an independent company. Wim Noorduin was previously involved in Lumetallix and now acts as a scientific adviser.
Scientific and/or societal impact
Scientific and/or societal impact
Creating awareness about the dangers of lead and enabling the public to test their own surrounCreating awareness about the dangers of lead and enabling the public to test their own surroundings. The final result: a healthy and safe living environment. dings. The final result: a healthy and safe living environment.
Creating awareness about the dangers of lead and enabling the public to test their own surrounCreating awareness about the dangers of lead and enabling the public to test their own surroundings. The final result: a healthy and safe living environment. dings. The final result: a healthy and safe living environment.
Learn more
Learn more
Website Lumetallix: https://www.lumetallix.com; AMOLF news item https://amolf.nl/news/a-lead-test-based-on-solar-cell-technology; New York Times news item https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/reviews/home-lead-test-review; Chemical & Engineering News item https://cen.acs.org/environment/Spraydetector-makes-lead-light-green/101/web/2023/12
Website Lumetallix: https://www.lumetallix.com; AMOLF news item https://amolf.nl/news/a-lead-test-based-on-solar-cell-technology; New York Times news item https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/reviews/home-lead-test-review; Chemical & Engineering News item https://cen.acs.org/environment/Spraydetector-makes-lead-light-green/101/web/2023/12
Contact
Contact
Wim Noorduin (email: W.Noorduin@amolf.nl)
Wim Noorduin (email: W.Noorduin@amolf.nl)
Program name
Program name
EQUSPACE: Enabling new quantum frontiers with spin acoustics in silicon
EQUSPACE: Enabling new quantum frontiers with spin acoustics in silicon
Program objective
Program objective
Develop an architecture for readout and coupling of spin qubits based on quantum acoustics
Develop an architecture for readout and coupling of spin qubits based on quantum acoustics
Research area
Research area
Information in Matter
Information in Matter
Partners and their key role
Partners and their key role
University of Jyväskylä (Finland): project management, spin-acoustic coupling and readout; HZDR (Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf, Germany): ion implantation and material purification; SemiQon (Finland): readout development; VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland: technology development and integration
University of Jyväskylä (Finland): project management, spin-acoustic coupling and readout; HZDR (Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf, Germany): ion implantation and material purification; SemiQon (Finland): readout development; VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland: technology development and integration
Contribution of AMOLF
Contribution of AMOLF
Development of phonon waveguides and spin-acoustic coupling
Development of phonon waveguides and spin-acoustic coupling
Current program phase
Current program phase
Program is running 2026-2029
Program is running 2026-2029
Scientific and/or societal impact
Scientific and/or societal impact
Creating a quantum technology platform based on donor spin qubits in silicon holds high promise because of their long coherence and integration with existing silicon technology
Creating a quantum technology platform based on donor spin qubits in silicon holds high promise because of their long coherence and integration with existing silicon technology
Contact
Contact
Ewold Verhagen (email: E.Verhagen@amolf.nl)
Ewold Verhagen (email: E.Verhagen@amolf.nl)
Program name
Program name
CHAIN: Coherent Algorithm-based Imaging of Nanostructures
CHAIN: Coherent Algorithm-based Imaging of Nanostructures
Program objective
Program objective
To develop 3D imaging systems that enable high-accuracy, high-resolution metrology and inspection for the next generation of semiconductor devices and materials science investigations
To develop 3D imaging systems that enable high-accuracy, high-resolution metrology and inspection for the next generation of semiconductor devices and materials science investigations
Research area
Research area
Diffraction-based imaging; Computational imaging
Diffraction-based imaging; Computational imaging
Partners and their key role
Partners and their key role
TUD: Lensless imaging invisible and with high-harmonic generation (HHG); Utrecht University: transmission electron microscopy (TEM, and multiple scattering expertise; Leiden University: computational reconstruction algorithms; ARCNL: wavefront shaping; ASML: interest in metrology and subwavelength imaging; Thermo Fisher Scientific: interest in TEM reconstruction; ASI (Amsterdam Scientific Instruments): event-based detectors for computational imaging; JCMwave: numerical algorithms for scattering problems; Demcon: insight in instrument integration
TUD: Lensless imaging invisible and with high-harmonic generation (HHG); Utrecht University: transmission electron microscopy (TEM, and multiple scattering expertise; Leiden University: computational reconstruction algorithms; ARCNL: wavefront shaping; ASML: interest in metrology and subwavelength imaging; Thermo Fisher Scientific: interest in TEM reconstruction; ASI (Amsterdam Scientific Instruments): event-based detectors for computational imaging; JCMwave: numerical algorithms for scattering problems; Demcon: insight in instrument integration
Contribution of AMOLF
Contribution of AMOLF
Fourier imaging and reconstruction in nanoscale multiple scattering systems
Fourier imaging and reconstruction in nanoscale multiple scattering systems
Current program phase
Current program phase
Program starts 2026
Program starts 2026
Scientific and/or societal impact
Scientific and/or societal impact
3D imaging and metrology tools and methods are crucial for the extension of Moore’s law required for smaller, faster, and more energy efficient electronics. 3D nanoscale electron imaging of materials will give new insights in many fields, ranging from energy conversion and storage, to health sciences.
3D imaging and metrology tools and methods are crucial for the extension of Moore’s law required for smaller, faster, and more energy efficient electronics. 3D nanoscale electron imaging of materials will give new insights in many fields, ranging from energy conversion and storage, to health sciences.
Contact
Contact
Femius Koenderink (email: F.Koenderink@amolf.nl)
Femius Koenderink (email: F.Koenderink@amolf.nl)
Value for industry partners
For companies, collaborating with AMOLF provides early access to cutting-edge scientific insights that can underpin future technologies and applications. Our partners benefit from:
- deep fundamental understanding that can de-risk long-term innovation
- access to advanced experimental techniques and infrastructure
- collaboration with leading scientists who think beyond short-term solutions
- opportunities to translate fundamental discoveries into applied concepts
- a trusted research partner with experience in industry-academia collaboration, both nationally and internationally
Through these partnerships, companies can explore new ideas, identify emerging technologies, and strengthen their innovation pipelines.
Collaboration in broad national consortia
Substantial impact can be achieved when multiple academic, business, and societal organizations work together. That is why AMOLF also participates in a number of major national consortia.
In the next section, you will find examples of broad national consortia in which AMOLF participates.
Examples of broad national consortia, involving industry, academia and society
Program name
Program name
SolarLab
SolarLab
Program objective
Program objective
Coordinating research of all groups in the Netherlands working on solar cells. Serves also as the academic research program support the SolarNL growth fund program
Coordinating research of all groups in the Netherlands working on solar cells. Serves also as the academic research program support the SolarNL growth fund program
Research area
Research area
Solar cells
Solar cells
Partners
Partners
All universities and institutes in the Netherlands working on solar cells are involved, including AMOLF, TNO, UvA, TUD, TUE, UT, RUG, RUN and UU
All universities and institutes in the Netherlands working on solar cells are involved, including AMOLF, TNO, UvA, TUD, TUE, UT, RUG, RUN and UU
Contribution of AMOLF
Contribution of AMOLF
AMOLF launched the initiative and chairs the steering committee
AMOLF launched the initiative and chairs the steering committee
Current program phase
Current program phase
SolarLab has existed for nearly a decade and has been supporting the SolarNL growth fund program since it started in 2024
SolarLab has existed for nearly a decade and has been supporting the SolarNL growth fund program since it started in 2024
Scientific and/or societal impact
Scientific and/or societal impact
Brings together all solar cell researchers in the Netherlands to coordinate efforts to support the development of a sustainable solar cell industry in the Netherlands
Brings together all solar cell researchers in the Netherlands to coordinate efforts to support the development of a sustainable solar cell industry in the Netherlands
Contact
Contact
Erik Garnett (email: E.Garnett@amolf.nl)
Erik Garnett (email: E.Garnett@amolf.nl)
Program name
Program name
NL-ECO Dutch consortium on energy efficient computing
NL-ECO Dutch consortium on energy efficient computing
Program objective
Program objective
NL-ECO is inspired by the need for a radical improvement in the energy efficiency of information and communication technology (ICT)
NL-ECO is inspired by the need for a radical improvement in the energy efficiency of information and communication technology (ICT)
Research area
Research area
Information processing using light and matter
Information processing using light and matter
Partners and their key role
Partners and their key role
Led by University of Twente, this consortium: Brings together academic expertise in neuromorphics, photonics, spintronics and electronics from UTwente, Cognigron, AMOLF, TU/e and TUD; Engages universities of applied sciences (Fontys and Saxion) and TNO; Is performed with industry and societal partners, including large corporations like ASML, IBM, Thales, ING and Toyota, as well as SMEs like LioniX, Smart Photonics, TSST, and Solmates
Led by University of Twente, this consortium: Brings together academic expertise in neuromorphics, photonics, spintronics and electronics from UTwente, Cognigron, AMOLF, TU/e and TUD; Engages universities of applied sciences (Fontys and Saxion) and TNO; Is performed with industry and societal partners, including large corporations like ASML, IBM, Thales, ING and Toyota, as well as SMEs like LioniX, Smart Photonics, TSST, and Solmates
Contribution of AMOLF
Contribution of AMOLF
Massively parallel wave-based information processing using metasurfaces
Massively parallel wave-based information processing using metasurfaces
Current program phase
Current program phase
program is in its first 30% (started early 2025)
program is in its first 30% (started early 2025)
Scientific and/or societal impact
Scientific and/or societal impact
Energy efficient information processing hardware and software concepts can ultimately lead to a dramatic reduction in energy consumption in ICT. Also, we target societal awareness of the challenges and solutions of green ICT.
Energy efficient information processing hardware and software concepts can ultimately lead to a dramatic reduction in energy consumption in ICT. Also, we target societal awareness of the challenges and solutions of green ICT.
Contact
Contact
Femius Koenderink (email: F.Koenderink@amolf.nl)
Femius Koenderink (email: F.Koenderink@amolf.nl)
Program name
Program name
QSTeM - A Testbed for Mechanical Quantum Sensing
QSTeM - A Testbed for Mechanical Quantum Sensing
Program objective
Program objective
Creating a laboratory environment for testing, benchmarking, and co-developing mechanical sensing technologies (this facility forms part of the Quantum Delta network)
Creating a laboratory environment for testing, benchmarking, and co-developing mechanical sensing technologies (this facility forms part of the Quantum Delta network)
Research area
Research area
Information in Matter
Information in Matter
Partners and their key role
Partners and their key role
Quantum Delta NL: funder; Gröblacher group, Delft University of Technology: management and R&D
Quantum Delta NL: funder; Gröblacher group, Delft University of Technology: management and R&D
Contribution of AMOLF
Contribution of AMOLF
Co-management of the project; Development of optomechanical sensors, sensor integration and validation
Co-management of the project; Development of optomechanical sensors, sensor integration and validation
Current program phase
Current program phase
The Testbed facility has been established, with various setups for testing high-quality sensors under various conditions; Collaborations with various industry partners have been initiated; Novel optomechanical sensor development and testing is underway, and the Testbed is expanding its capabilities and partnerships
The Testbed facility has been established, with various setups for testing high-quality sensors under various conditions; Collaborations with various industry partners have been initiated; Novel optomechanical sensor development and testing is underway, and the Testbed is expanding its capabilities and partnerships
Scientific and/or societal impact
Scientific and/or societal impact
Stimulate the adoption of novel mechanical sensing technologies, leveraging quantum-limited optical measurement and control and ultralow dissipation strategies
Stimulate the adoption of novel mechanical sensing technologies, leveraging quantum-limited optical measurement and control and ultralow dissipation strategies
Contact
Contact
Letizia Catalini (email: L.Catalini@amolf.nl); Ewold Verhagen (email: E.Verhagen@amolf.nl)
Letizia Catalini (email: L.Catalini@amolf.nl); Ewold Verhagen (email: E.Verhagen@amolf.nl)
Program name
Program name
Robotlab - Intelligent molecular systems
Robotlab - Intelligent molecular systems
Porgram objective
Porgram objective
Robotics for chemistry with emphasis on material science
Robotics for chemistry with emphasis on material science
Research area
Research area
Chemistry; Automation; AI
Chemistry; Automation; AI
Partners
Partners
Radboud University Nijmegen (Wilhelm Huck); Technical University Eindhoven (Bert Meijer); Rijksuniversiteit Groningen (Ben Feringa); Fontys Hogeschool; AMOLF; Industrial partners (varying per project)
Radboud University Nijmegen (Wilhelm Huck); Technical University Eindhoven (Bert Meijer); Rijksuniversiteit Groningen (Ben Feringa); Fontys Hogeschool; AMOLF; Industrial partners (varying per project)
Contribution of AMOLF
Contribution of AMOLF
Automated investigation of surfactants, condensates and crystallization behavior
Automated investigation of surfactants, condensates and crystallization behavior
Current program phase
Current program phase
About 26 projects started: surfactants, solubility, melting points, wetting behavior, catalysts design (homogeneous), experiments & AI (RUN, TU/e); AMOLF: 3PhD’s (Bakker, Tans, Noorduin)
About 26 projects started: surfactants, solubility, melting points, wetting behavior, catalysts design (homogeneous), experiments & AI (RUN, TU/e); AMOLF: 3PhD’s (Bakker, Tans, Noorduin)
Scientific and/or societal impact
Scientific and/or societal impact
Creation of a fully functioning robotic laboratory for automated chemical experimentation and formulation; Faster and more efficient development of new chemical formulations relevant for industry; Strengthening collaboration between knowledge institutes and commercial partners
Creation of a fully functioning robotic laboratory for automated chemical experimentation and formulation; Faster and more efficient development of new chemical formulations relevant for industry; Strengthening collaboration between knowledge institutes and commercial partners
Contact
Contact
Wim Noorduin (email: W.Noorduin@amolf.nl)
Wim Noorduin (email: W.Noorduin@amolf.nl)
Collaboration and academic freedom
Collaboration is at the heart of science, but it can also raise important questions about academic freedom and responsibility. Below, you can find our policy on these matters.
Collaboration is essential to scientific progress. AMOLF therefore supports cooperation with researchers and organizations worldwide. We are committed to collaborating in a manner consistent with academic freedom, ethical responsibility, respect for human rights, and academic integrity.
AMOLF clearly distinguishes between collaboration with individual researchers and institutional partnerships:
Institutional collaborations represent an organizational choice and are therefore subject to careful consideration. In assessing potential institutional collaborations, including those involving countries that are subject to public or political criticism, AMOLF evaluates each case based on scientific quality and reputation, as well as compliance with applicable laws, regulations, human rights, and ethical standards.
AMOLF firmly upholds the principle of academic freedom. AMOLF expects its scientists who engage in individual collaborations and other professional activities to uphold the principles of academic freedom, ethical responsibility, respect for human rights and academic integrity. If our scientists or management become aware that a collaboration may be of concern, for example because it is associated with a company or organization of concern or takes place in a country of concern, the management will assess the situation on a case-by-case basis, balancing the importance of collaboration and academic freedom against considerations of ethical responsibility, respect for human rights, and applicable laws and external regulations.
If you have any questions about this policy, please contact programoffice@amolf.nl.
Collaboration & Partnerships Latest news
Contact
Are you wondering whether collaborating or partnering with AMOLF could be of interest to your organization? Feel free to contact us at programoffice@amolf.nl to explore opportunities for collaboration and benefit from AMOLF’s expertise and technology.