Dutch science leadership shake-up: Antal van den Bosch resigns from NWO board
A key figure in Dutch science policy, Antal van den Bosch, is stepping down from the NWO Executive Board this summer. His departure may impact research funding and strategy in the social sciences and humanities, affecting academics and institutions nationwide.
| Key Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Antal van den Bosch |
| Position | Member of NWO Executive Board & Chair of SGW domain board |
| Resignation Date | Summer 2026 (formal end of term: July 1, 2026) |
| New Role | Vice-Dean for Research and Impact at his faculty |
| Tenure at NWO | Since July 1, 2023 |
| Successor Procedure | To be initiated shortly |
| NWO Chair Response | Marcel Levi expresses regret but respects the decision |
The Netherlands Organisation for Scientific Research (NWO) plays a pivotal role in funding and shaping Dutch scientific research. As a board member, Antal van den Bosch influenced policies and funding priorities, particularly in the social sciences and humanities, impacting universities and researchers across the country.
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Read the full translated article below
Antal van den Bosch steps down as NWO board member
Antal van den Bosch has informed NWO that he will resign from his positions as a member of the NWO Executive Board and as chair of the Social Sciences and Humanities (SGW) domain board this summer. His first term as an NWO board member formally ends on July 1, 2026.
Antal van den Bosch commented: "I find it exceptionally regrettable that I have had to make this decision. Both my faculty and NWO are very close to my heart, but over the past year, I have realized that I cannot fulfill this combination of roles in a way that does justice to the attention both positions require. I will now take on the role of Vice-Dean for Research and Impact within the faculty. This has led me to decide to end my chairmanship of the NWO SGW domain board."
NWO Chair Marcel Levi regrets Van den Bosch’s departure. "As a member of the NWO Executive Board, Antal has been a highly skilled and valued colleague. I would have been happy for him to continue for a second term. However, I can only respect the decision he has had to make in the interest of his other employer and his personal well-being. We are deeply grateful for everything he has done for NWO and Dutch science over the past years."
Antal van den Bosch has served as chair of the SGW domain board and as a member of the NWO Executive Board since July 1, 2023. The procedure for his succession will be initiated shortly.
