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Rick van de Zedde
Project manager NPEC & Sr. scientist/ business developer Phenomics and Automation at WUR
Professional Background
Rick van de Zedde is a distinguished Project Manager and Senior Scientist, leading groundbreaking initiatives in Plant Phenotyping and Automation at Wageningen University & Research (WUR). With nearly two decades of experience at WUR since 2004, Rick has made significant contributions to the domains of artificial intelligence, imaging, and robotics specifically tailored for agricultural advancements. Currently, he oversees the development of the Netherlands Plant Eco-phenotyping Centre (NPEC), a premier research facility dedicated to high-throughput phenotyping aimed at enhancing plant performance analysis in accordance with environmental variables.
Rick's commitment to advancing agricultural technologies has been evident in his roles on multiple projects and initiatives. He serves as the coordinator for AgroFoodRobotics.nl, a collaborative effort merging resources from various research institutes within the Wageningen University Research (WUR) framework. This initiative is emblematic of Rick’s capability to foster collaboration and drive innovation within agricultural robotics, positioning him as a pivotal figure in the field.
One of Rick's notable achievements includes his leadership in the MARVIN project in 2011, which focused on creating innovative methodologies for inspecting tomato seedlings through 3D reconstruction techniques. His expertise also extends to European Union projects, where he has been instrumental in leading the “Novel Instrumentation for Plant Phenotyping” work package within the EU project EPPN (European Plant Phenotyping Network), enhancing the research capabilities of partner institutions across Europe.
Education and Achievements
Rick's academic journey is rooted in a robust foundation in the sciences and humanities. He began his education at Veluws College Walterbosch, where he excelled in various subjects including English, Mathematics, Greek, Chemistry, Economics, Physics, and Linguistics. He further pursued higher studies in psychology and artificial intelligence at the University of Groningen, where he earned his bachelor's degree before continuing his specialization with an MSc in Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, and Mechatronics at the University of Zurich.
His broad educational background reinforces his analytical capabilities and positions him as a leader adept at integrating complex systems and innovative technologies into practical applications. Rick's academic accomplishments are a testament to his lifelong commitment to learning and professional growth, allowing him to navigate the evolving landscape of plant phenotyping with ease.
Notable Initiatives
Rick van de Zedde stands out as one of the founding members of the Phenomics initiative within WUR, an essential project that has fostered collaboration among 15 research groups focused on advancing plant phenotyping methodologies. Through this initiative, he has contributed to translating advanced scientific concepts into practical solutions that support the agricultural industry.
His leadership in the EU-COST action Phenomen-ALL (FA1306) further illustrates his dedication to integrating phenotyping techniques at both plant and cellular levels. Under this initiative, he has worked diligently to develop good practices for applied end use, ensuring that research findings are effectively implemented within real-world contexts.
Currently, Rick is dedicated to the development of NPEC, which is a state-of-the-art research facility that provides a versatile modular platform for scientists engaged in high-throughput phenotyping studies. The centre is designed to enable rigorous analysis of plant performance against critical biotic and abiotic factors, ranging from molecular to crop levels, thereby supporting advancements in agricultural research on both national and international scales.
NPEC represents significant investment and collaboration, co-funded by The Netherlands Organisation for Scientific Research (NWO) with an impressive budget of 11 million euros, contributing to the overall 22 million euros dedicated to this innovative research infrastructure. This facility stands to revolutionize the agricultural research landscape, driving forward our understanding and cultivation of plants in a sustainable manner.
Contributions to the Community
Rick has also played a crucial role outside of his direct research activities. He has formerly served as the Chairman of the Alumni Association Axon, thereby contributing to the growth and networking of professionals in his field. His experience as a researcher and business developer at Wageningen Food & Biobased Research highlights his multifaceted ability to bridge the gap between research and commercialization, making technological advancements accessible to larger audiences.
Additionally, Rick's roles as a support application engineer, software engineer at 3D CNC Measurement & Metrology Systems, and editor at BETA-wijzer showcase his versatility and commitment to promoting best practices and innovations in various sectors. He has also been involved in community events, like assisting as security personnel at festivals, demonstrating his varied engagement with both academic and public spheres.
With an unwavering focus on innovation and collaboration, Rick van de Zedde continues to be a pioneering force in the field of plant phenotyping and automation. His leadership, extensive research experience, and commitment to educational advancement signify his ongoing dedication to improving agricultural practices through cutting-edge technology. As his work progresses, Rick is poised to lead future developments that will undoubtedly benefit global agricultural practices while ensuring sustainability and efficiency in food production.
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