Hey everyone, I’m Jasper, and I’m absolutely thrilled to be serving as your Engineering Councillor for the year of 2024. Originally hailing from the tiny yet mighty Netherlands, I took a leap of faith and journeyed to Brisbane in search of those famed sun-soaked days – though I must admit, my newfound tendency to sport a sunburn serves as a gentle reminder of the power of Australian sunshine! (I’m not built for this).
Currently, my days are filled with the exhilarating pursuit of knowledge as I delve deep into the world of Collaborative Robotics through my PhD program at QUT. My passion lies in ensuring that as we venture into the realms of robotics, we do so with an unwavering commitment to safety and ethical responsibility, ensuring that our technological advancements benefit humanity as a whole. Most importantly, in my work, I focus on the perspective that robots can enhance human capabilities, rather than replace human effort altogether.
When I’m not immersed in the intricacies of my research, you’ll often find me out on the football field, where the thrill of the game and the camaraderie of fellow players never fail to lift my spirits. Sometimes it gets the better of me when I find myself watching a game at 3.30 AM Brissy time. Off the field, I’m an avid gamer, exploring virtual realms and conquering digital challenges with gusto.
But let’s not forget one of life’s greatest pleasures – food! I’m constantly on the lookout for new culinary adventures, eager to sample the diverse flavors and cuisines that Brisbane has to offer. In particular as Dutch cuisine is easy to miss – only the fried snacks and stroopwafels are worth your time.
One of the most rewarding aspects of my academic journey thus far has been the opportunity to connect with individuals from all corners of the globe, learning about their cultures, traditions, and perspectives. Now, as I immerse myself in the rich tapestry of Aussie culture, I’m eager to forge new connections and experiences.
As a member of the Guild, I’m deeply committed to advocating for the needs and interests of our diverse student community, with a particular focus on supporting international and PhD students. Whether you have ideas to share, issues to discuss, or simply fancy a coffee, my inbox is always open at engineeringcouncillor@qutguild.com Let’s come together and make this year one for the books!
