Leen Van Tendeloo

Can you describe your role/position at Umicore?

At the central R&D department I work on the development of new functional materials for various applications. For example, I’m currently working on a project to improve catalysts for diesel engines.

What do you like about your job?

I think it is great that our R&D department cannot only deliver short-term solutions for the business units, but that we can also contribute to the longer-term solutions by developing new generation materials for the future.

What do you like about working at Umicore?

Umicore is a relatively large company, and through my job at R&D, I come into contact with a wide range of activities (such as emission control catalysts, energy and recycling).

Why did you want to work at Umicore?

I started at Umicore immediately after my PhD. My current job is in the same field, so I was able to put my scientific knowledge to use straight away by applying for a job at Umicore.

What do you look forward to when you set off to work in the morning?

I am always curious to see the most recent analytical results. After all the hard work we put in together as a team, it is nice to share the success, but also brief moments of disappointment.

What has been the highlight of your time at Umicore so far?

I really enjoy working on projects with different partners (different Business Units, Group Research & Development, external partners, etc.) and the feeling that everyone is on the same page, working together towards a common goal.

Any advice for newcomers?

Someone once told me: "As a newcomer, use your fresh insights  to improve even further our day-to-day processes." This is also the message I would also like to pass on to new employees.