Earlier this year, Bert Weckhuysen was awarded the prestigious Francqui Chair, a distinguished academic honor, at the University of Antwerp in Belgium. This award recognizes outstanding scientific contributions and includes the delivery of a series of lectures to the academic community.

Between September 24 and 26, Bert presented three comprehensive lectures as part of his Francqui Chair appointment, covering a range of topics at the intersection of catalysis, sustainability, and education:

1. Operando Spectroscopy of Catalyst Materials: The Past, Present, and Future – exploring the evolution and advancement of spectroscopic techniques for studying catalytic processes in real-time
2. Catalysis Achievements and Needs for Realizing the Refinery of the Future – examining current developments and future requirements in catalytic science to transform industrial refining processes
3. Da Vinci Project: Educating Sustainability Change-makers with Transdisciplinary Challenge-based Learning and Design Thinking – discussing innovative educational approaches that integrate multiple disciplines to prepare students for addressing sustainability challenges

The lecture series concluded with an interactive component on Friday afternoon, September 26. During this session, students participated in hands-on challenges centered on material and energy transitions, with a particular emphasis on applying design thinking methodologies to real-world problems. Bert collaborated with three University of Antwerp faculty members—Professors Bert Maes, Pegie Cool, and Vera Meynen—who acted as challenge owners, providing guidance and expertise in their respective areas throughout the student activities.