Michiel Hogerheijde appointed Vice-Dean of Faculty of Science
image: Charlotte Ellerman
Michiel Hogerheijde has been appointed Vice-Dean of the Faculty of Science as of 1 January 2027. He succeeds Bart de Smit, who has held the position since 2019. Hogerheijde is looking forward to working together with students and staff. ‘Good education is something you create together.’
Hogerheijde has always been passionate about teaching. In addition to many years of teaching himself, he served as Chair of the Astronomy programme committee and as Programme Director of the Bachelor Astronomy. Since 2024, he has been Director of Education within the board of Leiden Observatory. Alongside his new role, Hogerheijde will remain involved in teaching and research at the Observatory for one day a week.
Dean Jasper Knoester and Executive Director Suzanne van der Pluijm are pleased with the appointment. ‘Michiel brings valuable governance experience and has a strong vision for future‑proof education. We are confident that we will once again have an excellent Faculty Board, with personalities and strengths that complement each other well.’
A future of change
How does Hogerheijde see the future? ‘A great deal is changing in our education. In the coming years, we will work with colleagues involved to further develop our educational logistics.’ The rapid development of artificial intelligence also presents new opportunities, as well as challenges, he notes. ‘It is testing our familiar ways of teaching and assessment. At the same time, expectations from the government and society are high. Only by responding proactively to these developments can we ensure that our education remains attractive and of the highest quality.’
Hogerheijde looks forward to shaping the faculty’s education in close consultation with programmes, students and staff. ‘Their enthusiasm and dedication inspire me. It motivates me to commit wholeheartedly to education within the faculty, the university, and the wider educational field. Because good education is something we create together.’
‘Exactly what the faculty needs right now’
Rector Magnificus Sarah de Rijcke is pleased with Hogerheijde’s appointment. ‘Education is changing rapidly, driven in part by the way we conduct research, use technology and educate students. Michiel combines deep subject expertise with extensive leadership experience and a keen appreciation of the people who make education possible. That is exactly what the faculty and the university need right now.’