Frans Houwen

Frans Houwen (1958) studied biology in Nijmegen, specializing in biochemistry and microbiology. He obtained his PhD in Wageningen and subsequently worked as a postdoctoral researcher in Uppsala (Sweden) and Ghent (Belgium). In addition to conducting research (including on methanogenesis), he taught.

At the Blood Bank in Maastricht (now Sanquin), he held various management positions in the Production, Laboratory, and Logistics (Distribution) departments and served as a project manager (process improvement/quality).

In 2003, he made the move to the industrial sector. As the only biologist in a technical environment, he contributed—in the role of system developer—to the creation of several products at the intersection of (medical) biology, engineering, and software.

His creativity and goal-oriented approach led to patent applications and, in 2009, the founding of ScienceLynk B.V., a company active in the life sciences sector (www.sciencelynk.eu). A few years later, a second company, Peracutus B.V., was established to develop a new volume-measurement method into a market-ready product.

As a manager and coach, he consistently draws upon people's knowledge and strengths, practicing people management in an inspiring and motivating way. He has a keen interest in philosophical questions, and his hobbies include walking, cycling, and reading.

What kind of questions can you address to Frans Houwen?

• What do I want to become? Where do I want to be?
• How do I write a good CV and a good cover letter?
• How do I prepare for a job interview?
• On what basis do I make decisions?

Specializations:

• CV, cover letter, and job interview
• Self-reflection
• Networking

Coach passport: