I have a strong passion for sports and aerodynamics. Helping elite athletes perform better drives me to continuously innovate at the interface of fundamental aerodynamic research and elite sport performance.

After completing my Master’s degree at TU Delft in 2007, I did not expect to return to academia. I began my career as a consultant at ORTEC, a provider of decision-support software, where I primarily worked on projects for the oil and gas industry. When I had the opportunity to contribute to a sports-related project involving data collection in sailing, I realised how central sport is to my life. This experience motivated me to leave ORTEC and pursue a career in sports engineering.

In 2015, I was fortunate to start a PhD at TU Delft focusing on cycling aerodynamics. Over the course of five years, I investigated the flow around cyclists using large-scale particle image velocimetry (PIV), a state-of-the-art flow measurement technique. This work included the development and application of advanced measurement systems such as the Ring of Fire.

When the position of TeamNL Expert Aerodynamics became available, I did not hesitate. Since starting in this role in 2019, I have applied my aerodynamic expertise to support Dutch elite athletes across multiple sports, including speed skating, cycling, and skeleton. I have worked on a wide range of innovative projects in close collaboration with inspiring athletes, coaches, engineers, and industrial partners, contributing to measurable performance gains at the highest level.

Alongside my work at TeamNL, I continue to conduct research in sports aerodynamics at TU Delft. Although research can be slow and does not always lead directly to performance improvements, I believe it is essential for developing a deep understanding of the mechanisms that govern aerodynamic performance—and, ultimately, for achieving meaningful aerodynamic optimisation.