Dr. Rienk Eelkema

Professor

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Biography

Rienk Eelkema is a Full Professor at Delft University of Technology, specializing in interactive organic polymer materials for aqueous biological environments. His research involves developing interactive soft materials utilizing fuel-driven chemical reaction networks, biomolecule labeling, and responsive polymers for biomedical applications. During his academic career, he has pioneered the use of catalysis to control the kinetics of molecular gel formation and has implemented chemical fuels for creating synthetic active polymers, akin to GTP-driven microtubule polymerization. Eelkema's lab focuses on developing signal-responsive chemical reaction networks and the integration of polymer materials for applications in biomedicine and radiotherapy. His academic journey began with a degree in Chemistry from the University of Groningen, followed by a PhD in supramolecular chemistry, and postdoctoral work at the University of Oxford. He has steadily progressed through the ranks at TU Delft, becoming a Full Professor in 2025. Eelkema has also received numerous awards for his contributions, including the ERC Consolidator Grant and the Early Excellence Profile in the Journal of Physical Organic Chemistry.

Research Interests

Experience

Full Professor

2025-01-01 — Present

Delft University of Technology • Delft, Netherlands

Leading research in interactive organic polymer materials.

Associate Professor

2017-01-01 — 2025-01-01

Delft University of Technology • Delft, Netherlands

Teaching and research in organic chemistry and material science.

Assistant Professor

2008-01-01 — 2017-01-01

Delft University of Technology • Delft, Netherlands

Conducting research and mentoring students.

Postdoctoral Research Fellow

2006-01-01 — 2008-01-01

University of Oxford • Oxford, UK

Focused on nanoscale insulation and molecular wires.

Awards

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Francesco Maffioli Award

#

ERC Consolidator Grant

2016-01-01
#

Early Excellence Profile

2013-01-01

Courses

Molecular Engineering Principles Chemistry & Thermodynamics Practicum Basisvaardigheden

Requirements for Delft University of Technology

Master Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3
IELTS
Listening
Required:6.5
Reading
Required:6.5
Writing
Required:6.5
Speaking
Required:6.5
Overall
Required:7
TOEFL
Listening
Required:22
Reading
Required:22
Writing
Required:22
Speaking
Required:22
Total
Required:100
GRE General
Verbal
Required:154
Quantitative
Required:159
Analytical Writing
Required:4
Overall
Required:4
Prerequisites
Bachelor degree in a related field Sufficient credits in key subjects (Mathematics, Physics, Discipline-specific)
Application Checklist
  • Bachelor's degree certificate
  • Academic transcript
  • English language certificate
  • Curriculum Vitae (CV)
  • Motivation letter
  • Two letters of recommendation
  • Identity document (Passport)
  • GRE General Test results (for international diplomas)
Specialization Notes

Requirements apply generally across engineering and science master programs. Specific tracks like Architecture require a digital portfolio.