Update: Dijkgraaf Sworn in as Minister of Education, Culture and Science

Robbert Dijkgraaf, IAS Director and Leon Levy Professor (2012–22), was sworn in by King Willem-Alexander on January 10, 2022, as Minister of Education, Culture and Science, joining the fourth cabinet of Mark Rutte, Prime Minister of the Netherlands, on behalf of the (the social-liberal party) D66, the second party in the country.

In this capacity, Dijkgraaf will be responsible for the ministry’s mission of ensuring “a knowledgeable, skilled, and cultured country.” His focus will include, in particular, higher education, research, and fostering a creative environment to support students, teachers, and scholars.

“On behalf of the Board of Trustees and our entire Institute family, it is with great pride that we recognize Robbert for his nomination as Minister of Education, Culture and Science of the Netherlands,” stated Charles Simonyi, IAS Board Chair. “We are deeply thankful to Robbert for his extraordinary leadership during his ten-year tenure and wish him continued success in this new role. Our community will miss very much Robbert, Pia, and their family.”

Dijkgraaf, who began his term as IAS Director on July 1, 2012, added, “For me this call presents a unique opportunity to serve my country at a critical time. Although I am leaving the Institute with a heavy heart and earlier than planned, I’m comforted to know that with David Nirenberg as my successor, IAS will be in very able and caring hands. Pia and I look forward to a moment in the near future to say goodbye in a more proper and personal manner, although there is no way in which we can adequately express our gratitude for your support and friendship over the past decade.”

An official transition plan is being developed by the Board of Trustees in cooperation with incoming IAS Director David Nirenberg and the Executive Officers of the four schools.