Yesterday, Lieven Vandersypen joined a lunch with King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima at Noordeinde Palace. The monarchs want to express their appreciation to so-called ‘uitblinkers’ (high achievers): people who have distinguished themselves by a special achievement in various national sectors, such as culture, science or sports. A total of 27 guests were invited.

QuTech’s Director Research Lieven Vandersypen was invited because he received the Spinoza Prize, the highest award in Dutch science.

Vandersypen: “It felt very special to have lunch with the King and Queen and to feel their appreciation. It was also both fun and interesting to meet such a diverse group of people. I am very grateful for the invitation, and it was a pleasure to participate.”

Photo credit: Rotapool/ANP/Sem van der Wal