Dr. André Heeres, professor of Biobased Chemistry at the Hanze University of Applied Sciences, is engaged in (bio) chemical modifications of biomass. Biomass is diverse; from agricultural crops to (animal) residues.

The chemical industry is still dependent on fossil fuels and petroleum but biomass can in many cases serve as raw material for green (bulk) chemicals, bioplastics or even used for medical applications.

Some applied research examples, within the research group Chemistry, are the valorisation of common shrimp shells (adding value to chitin) and pharmaceuticals from glycoalkaloids.

André studied chemistry in Groningen. He conducted his PhD research at TNO Nutrition (modifications of polysaccharides). In addition, André has extensive experience in grant applications to co-finance projects.

Besides working for the Hanze University of Applied Sciences in Groningen, André works for Syncom and is from here involved in the creation and expansion of several spin-off companies.