Institute policies
Our strategy
AMOLF’s strategy for 2023–2028 focuses on advancing fundamental research in three interdisciplinary themes: Sustainable Energy Materials, Information in Matter, and Autonomous Matter. The institute will strengthen collaboration across physics, chemistry, biology, and engineering to develop new materials and concepts with impact on energy, technology, and society.
World-class talent
A central pillar of the strategy is attracting and developing world-class scientific talent. AMOLF continues to provide competitive start-up packages, strong mentoring, and a collaborative culture to draw leading tenure-track group leaders and junior researchers from around the world. Training programs for PhD candidates and postdocs will be further expanded to strengthen early-career development.
Collaboration
AMOLF will deepen its national role by coordinating large research networks and consortia, building on recent successes in Growth Fund initiatives for materials, photovoltaics, and quantum technology. Collaboration with Dutch universities will be expanded through shared PhD and postdoc positions, joint projects, and participation in national research programs. International partnerships with leading institutes, such as Fraunhofer ISE, Cambridge University, and ESPCI Paris, will be further developed.
Investments
Major investments in infrastructure are central to the strategic plan. AMOLF is upgrading the NanoLab Amsterdam cleanroom facilities, supported by a national investment program, and is renewing key equipment for nanofabrication, microscopy, spectroscopy, and computational research. Additional investments in scientific infrastructure, data management, and open science will further support this growth, including full implementation of the institute’s renewed data and open science policy.
Diversity and inclusion
AMOLF is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive community in which people from different cultural, ethnic, and religious backgrounds, and with differences in gender, sexual orientation, health, and age can thrive. We believe that a wide range of perspectives strengthens our science, enriches daily collaboration, and creates a more personal and welcoming workplace.
Our goal is a workplace where everyone feels free to contribute ideas and share their perspectives. An Inclusion and Diversity team, launched in 2022, guides our long-term roadmap for equality, inclusion, and diversity across the institute.
Sustainability
AMOLF is committed to reducing its environmental impact and making responsible choices in how we operate our institute. Recent steps include renovating the roof with reflective materials to lower cooling needs and installing solar panels that supply part of our electricity. We are also replacing older equipment and lighting with more energy-efficient alternatives.
Sustainable mobility is an important focus. Many employees use public transport, bicycles, or electric vehicles, and hybrid working helps reduce commuting. We also encourage researchers to make conscious travel choices, especially within Europe. Inside the building, we continue to improve waste separation and aim to reduce material use. Through these efforts, AMOLF works toward a more sustainable research environment.
