
Date: October 6, 2025
Location: University of Twente (UT), Enschede
Audience: PhD candidates within SolarLab and partners from the SolarNL ecosystem
Following the success of the first edition in Delft, SolarLab gathers again this autumn—this time on the campus of the University of Twente—for a second workshop dedicated to connection, inspiration, and collaboration across the Dutch solar energy research community.
This workshop offers PhD candidates a platform to present their work, expand their network, and learn from both peers and professionals from industry. The day combines scientific depth with hands-on experience and provides space for storytelling, teamwork, and even some friendly competition.
Program
09:30 – Walk-in (Phd-only)
- Badge distribution
- Students welcome incl. quick general intro
10:00–10:50 – Lab Tours (in groups) (UT)
- Focus: Nanolab, PLD, Optics Lab
- Campus tour included as a buffer to avoid overcrowding in the labs
10:50 – 11:00 SolarLab intro (Bruno/Rebecca)
11:00–12:00 – Pitch-Making Masterclass (David Redeker; scientificstorytelling.nl)
- Introduction to group pitch activity at the start of the session
12:00 – 12:45 (sit-down) Lunch
12:45–13:00 – Group Photo
13:00–13:45 – Company Pitches 3 companies: each 10 min pitch + 4 min Q&A + 1 min transition
13:45–14:45 – PhD Pitch Preparation
- Pre-decide/allocate groups for pitching (decide group size)
- Simultaneous PI Coffee-break (30 min) / Meeting (30 min)
14:45–16:00 – PhD Pitches
- Format: 2 min pitch + 2 min Q&A + 1 min transition
16:00–17:00 – Poster Session & Closing Drinks
- Prize/present distribution
18:00 – Informal Dinner
- Organized by students
Why This Workshop Matters
This second SolarLab Workshop highlights the vital connection between fundamental research and industrial application. Not only does it provide space for academic exchange, but it also equips early-stage researchers with essential skills in science communication, teamwork, and presenting impactful research.
SolarLab, as part of SolarNL, remains committed to building a strong, future-focused solar energy community in the Netherlands—and this workshop is a perfect example of that mission in action.