Evening of Chemistry

Every year I look forward to the Evening of Chemistry, which this time took place in Nijmegen – my old university city. It felt like coming home: familiar faces everywhere. The KNCV organises this evening to bring the Dutch chemistry world together, to put young and established talent in the spotlight, and of course to mingle and network. It is a blend of symposium and theatre show: strong in substance, yet with room for personality and humour. The speakers were once again impressive this year, offering perspectives you rarely encounter at a standard symposium.

Yet that is not what makes the evening special to me. What I love most is the awkwardness. Because scientists in a theatre setting – that remains a gloriously wonderful collision of worlds. People walk off in the wrong direction, forget that there is professional technical equipment, fumble over whether or not to shake hands, and clapping in time goes completely awry. And I say this with affection: it is precisely that clumsiness that makes it so genuine. We are not standing there as professional performers, but as passionate scientists who want to share something wonderful. This year it was my turn to join in, with a bespoke comedy show in which I became part of the collective cringe – and I wouldn’t have had it any other way.

Next year it is Groningen’s turn. Quite a drive, but I’ll be there.