Dr. Stephen Picken

Professor

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Biography

Stephen Picken is a Full Professor of Polymer Materials at TU Delft. He began his career studying experimental and theoretical physics at Groningen University, obtaining his Drs. degree in 1985. He worked at Akzo (Nobel) in corporate research in Arnhem while pursuing his PhD, which he completed cum laude at Utrecht University in 1990 under the supervision of Prof. H.N.W. Lekkerkerker and Dr. M.G. Northolt. He specializes in the physical structure-property relationships of polymeric liquid crystalline materials, particularly those related to mechanical, optical, and functional properties, such as ultra-high performance fibers and ionic polymer electrolytes. Picken's recent research focuses on bio-based polymer materials derived from waste treatment processes, including Kaumera® glycoprotein sourced from industrial municipal wastewater and PHBV biopolyester from food and agricultural waste. His research group emphasizes the development of sustainable polymer materials.

Research Interests

Experience

Chair Polymer Materials

1990-10-01 — Present

TU Delft • Delft, Netherlands

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.