Chan Vinh graduated cum laude in biomedical engineering at the TU/e and started as a PhD candidate in the Chemical Biology group five years ago, investigating the molecular basis for metabolic diseases such as diabetes. Here, Chan Vinh demonstrated his exceptional qualities by independently securing NWO-sponsored funding for his PhD research. He very quickly established a solid basis for his research project and set up a collaboration with the UMCU.

Chan Vinh was passionate about his research project and the underlying research question. He had a tremendous capacity to quickly extract the essential information from diverse chemical and medical articles and to apply these to his research project, and was especially good and finding solutions to difficult research problems. Chan Vinh was therefore a considerable inspiration to his colleagues. His passion for science also formed the basis for his approach to treating his disease.

Chan Vinh was a much loved colleague and friend and will be dearly missed by all. He was always open to and greatly valued outside input, and took genuine interest in the research projects and lives of others. During the last couple of years, conversations with Chan Vinh became less science-related and more personal, which added a new dimension to the interactions that many had with him. It was a privilege to have been able to accompany Chan Vinh during his University years. Everyone privileged to have known him will forever remember his passion and fighting spirit.

Our thoughts are with his family and all those that knew him. We wish them strength during this difficult time of loss.

On behalf of the Chemical Biology group,

And the Biomedical Engineering department,

Prof.dr.ir. L. Brunsveld
Dr. L.G. Milroy
Dr. C. Ottmann
Prof.dr. P.A.J. Hilbers
Prof.dr.ir. C.W.J. Oomens
Mr. J.M.R. Debey