National Trip – KWR Watercycle Research Institute

When we arrived at KWR in Nieuwegein, we were welcomed by Gerda Sulmann with KWR-cookies, coffee and tea. Gerda gave us an interesting introduction in the workings and origin of KWR. Furthermore, she talked about their research and she gave us examples of the work KWR has done over the past years. After this introduction the group got a tour of the chemistry and biology labs.

At the chemistry lab Annemieke Kolkman showed us their equipment and explained their functions and applications. One example is that they were able to identify drugs in sewage (waste water) and if these drugs had been in the human body.

Ronald Italiaander showed us around the biology lab. This lab was mainly used for different polymerase chain reaction (PCR) methods and sequencing. Many bacteria can’t grow on petri dishes and thus require other methods of identification. Sequencing is an ideal method for identification, since it’s relatively cheap and quick. For instance, this is used to test which kind of bacteria are present in rivers and in sewers.

Next on the schedule was a more interactive part, the students were divided in the following three groups, Hydrogenomics, presented by Bart Wullings, City blueprint, presented by Stef Koop, and evaluation of collective research, presented by Laurens Hessels.

After these individual sessions the groups came together and of each of the groups one student presented their findings. Gerda closed this educational day with a presentation in which she explained and talked about some of the educational goals we made beforehand.

The day ended with some drinks and talking about the interesting day!

Thanks for joining us!

The National Trip committee

Arnold Kole

Indi Joore

Pjotr Temme

Tambinh Bui