ACADEMIC BIO
Sarah joined Leiden University in the Spring of 2011, where she is currently professor in Science, Technology & Innovation Studies and dean of the Faculty of Social and Behavioral Sciences (FSW). Before becoming dean, she was the director of the Centre for Science and Technology Studies (2019-2023), the institute that houses her professorship.
Sarah brings together significant research experience and strategic leadership in university management. This positions her as a leading voice about the future of higher education.
As dean, she is leading one of the Netherlands' premier social sciences faculties with approximately 7,000 students and 1,025 staff members across five specialised institutes.
Sarah strategically oversees the implementation of the faculty's Vision and Strategy Plan 2022-2027. Together with colleagues. she is also leading the FSW through challenges including funding cuts and (inter)national policy changes, while strengthening interdisciplinary programs and academic culture reform.
Sarah has a strong international reputation in Science and Technology Studies (STS). She has led partnerships with global research institutions, secured major grants, and managed multidisciplinary research teams and international projects.
Her research has been taken up by a host of international bodies. She is member of multiple (inter)national scientific advisory boards and regularly acts as expert advisor in European and global science policy initiatives.