The connection between UM and Venlo

Maastricht University (UM) offers education in Venlo since 2009; first two master's programmes and since 2015 also the bachelor programme of University College Venlo. From the beginning, education connects to nutrition and logistics, themes vital to Venlo’s success. This ties in neatly with the research that is taking place there, e.g. the psychology of food, microbiology and digestion, as well as the HEFI and FCCV centres.

What will be investigated in the new lab?

The new laboratories offer unique, advanced equipment that mimics the human intestinal system in great detail. For example, the degradation of nutrients in combination with the micro-organisms in the intestines can be traced. There is research into taste perception and eating behaviour, as well as health effects in test subjects. All of which is of interest to scientists, but also to the food industry. Health claims can be proven or rejected through controlled testing. Entrepreneurs are therefore welcome to have products tested. That can be done quickly; sometimes results are known within a few days.

Nick Bos, vice-president of UM’s Executive Board, participated in the opening ceremony. He emphasized the importance of Campus Venlo, which, like the other three Brightlands campuses, is seen as a 'flywheel' of the economic development of Limburg. "On these campuses, we focus on the themes the region excels in and which are aligned with our education and research. These types of initiatives form the basis for a Euregio with a healthy, mobile and well-educated population, including highly educated knowledge workers. "