Petra de Jongh wins Gilles Holst Medal. Recognition for her scientific contribution to a sustainable energy transition

Catalysts

De Jongh's expertise spans many fields. She carries out basic research into nanomaterials that can be used as catalysts, or for storing and converting renewable energy. Her research focuses particularly on the role of catalysts – i.e. substances that accelerate chemical reactions without actually being consumed themselves – in enabling efficient chemical conversions. Catalysts of this kind are crucial for producing sustainable fuels and chemical building blocks. This involves replacing fossil raw materials such as oil or gas with circular raw materials, such as green hydrogen combined with carbon from waste, biomass, or carbon dioxide. 

Towards a sustainable energy transition

Using advanced methods, De Jongh investigates the relationship between the structure and effectiveness of catalysts. Her research – in collaboration with relevant companies – paves the way for new processes, for example the sustainable synthesis of methanol, hydrocarbons, or ammonia – key processes on the pathway towards a circular economy. Moreover, De Jongh and her team are at the forefront of developing a new generation of batteries that will be safer, lighter, and more efficient. Such progress is crucial for a sustainable energy transition.

About the winner

Petra de Jongh is Professor of Catalysts and Sustainable Energy Materials at Utrecht University and a scientific staff member of the Materials Chemistry and Catalysis research group at the Debye Institute for Nanomaterials Science. Internationally, she first became known for her research on sustainable hydrogen. De Jongh is the first female winner of the Gilles Holst Medal.