Bruno Ehrler appointed new director of AMOLF
The Board of NWO-I has appointed Prof. Dr. Bruno Ehrler as the new director of AMOLF, the national institute for research on functional complex matter. Effective 1 January 2026, Ehrler will succeed Prof. Dr. Huib Bakker. With this appointment, AMOLF welcomes a strategic and empathetic leader with a strong scientific track record and a clear vision.
After his PhD and postdoctoral work at the University of Cambridge, Bruno Ehrler joined AMOLF in 2014. He leads the Hybrid Solar Cells group, which focuses on topics such as perovskite photovoltaics and neuromorphic devices, as well as the interdisciplinary department of LMPV-Sustainable Energy Materials. Ehrler also serves as Honorary Professor at the Faculty of Science and Engineering of the University of Groningen.
Role in energy transition
Ehrler has secured several prestigious research grants and has received multiple prizes and awards. He has graduated several PhD students and currently supervises a team of nine researchers. He also plays a key role in shaping the Dutch scientific landscape and fostering collaboration in the field of energy research.
As vice-chair of the Netherlands Energy Research Alliance (NERA) and figurehead of the NWA route Energy Transition, Ehrler brings extensive experience in strategic coordination, science policy, and community building. This was also instrumental in his contribution to establishing SolarNL, a national program for the industrialization of solar energy. As Program Director of SolarLab, the national solar energy research consortium, Ehrler leads a major academic program that connects universities, research institutes, and industry across the Netherlands.
Contributing to AMOLF’s continued excellence
Reflecting on his new appointment, Ehrler says: “Since joining AMOLF, I have been deeply invested in its scientific mission, collaborative culture, and dynamic research program. I look forward to serving as AMOLF’s director and contributing to its continued excellence as one of the Netherlands’ leading research institutes. I am driven to lead AMOLF into a bright future!”
Ehrler’s vision is that AMOLF stands out as a national research institute for three reasons: world-leading, interdisciplinary research in the field of functional complex matter; the ability to initiate new research directions; and a unique role in coordinating research fields nationally and internationally. This vision translates into priorities for the coming years that include strengthening AMOLF’s scientific themes, promoting collaboration and valorization, and ensuring the institute remains agile in responding to new opportunities.
Equally central to Ehrler’s vision is protecting ‘the magic of AMOLF’: a workplace culture where excellence in science goes hand in hand with diversity, inclusion, and well-being of all staff. “I strongly believe in open, transparent leadership,” says Ehrler. “Fostering an inspiring environment for all staff will be a priority in the years to come.”
Dynamic and strategic leader
The selection committee praises Bruno Ehrler’s clear view on AMOLF’s position within a dynamic research landscape and how it can contribute to addressing major societal challenges. Committee member and AMOLF Institute Manager Paula van Tijn adds: “The committee appreciates the candidate’s broad enthusiasm for AMOLF’s research program and his vision to strengthening its national and international profile in the coming years. As a person, the candidate stands out as a dynamic and strategic leader, known for transparent communication, a strong emphasis on talent development, and a results-driven approach.”
NWO President Marcel Levi is delighted with the appointment: “Bruno Ehrler combines scientific excellence with a broad strategic perspective. He has a strong commitment to further shaping AMOLF as a fundamental and applied research institute deeply connected to society. With this appointment, AMOLF will continue having leadership that understands both the academic and societal value of research. I am confident that Bruno will guide the institute with vision, integrity, and energy.”
More information
If you have questions about Bruno Ehrler’s appointment as director, please contact AMOLF’s Institute Manager Paula van Tijn (email: p.van.tijn@amolf.nl).
