to finally cut the Gordian knot and set down some clear choices about spearhead research. During Frans van Vught’s first period as rector it was decided to emphasise the UT’s prowess in microsystems technology, computer communication (telematics), biomedical technology and process technology and to lend weight to this profile by strengthening the relevant institutes. The UT’s first formal interfaculty research institute was MESA, a collaboration between the faculties of Electrical, Chemical, and Physical technologies. MESA was founded in 1990, based on existing groups researching sensors, actuators and microsystems. Electronics, Optics and Materials (CMO) joined in 1999, leading to MESA+. [92] David Reinhoudt was its first director and soon led the charge for more institutionalisation. “It is absolutely plain that this type of organisation has done the UT a great deal of good. Without the institutes we would never have been able to build our top-quality Nanolab. A matrix organisation like this leaves the faculties free to concentrate on their primary task, which is good bachelor and master-level education.” MESA+ was both a scientific and a commercial success. The facilities, which were extremely expensive, could supply the university with income as they were rented out to commercial partners. [93, 94] Small business, commonly UT spin-offs like Micronlt, Lionix, CapilliX and Medimate, were quick to use the Nanolab facility. The commercial success of MESA+ also led to its being chosen as the centre of Nanoned, a national research programme funded from natural gas income.
[91] A nne Flierman, Chair of the Board of Governors, presents the university’s medal of honour to prof. dr. ir. D.N. (David) Reinhoudt on his departure in 2007 [92] The first, modest accommodation of MESA+ in 1999 [93] The MESA+ clean room [94] The MESA+ clean room (detail) 169