Louis de Smet

Prof. Louis de Smet is a Professor at Wageningen University & Research, leading the Advanced Interfaces & Materials group within the Laboratory of Organic Chemistry. His research focuses on developing functional organic materials for ion sensing, separation, and recovery, with applications in water technology and environmental sustainability. He holds an ERC Consolidator Grant and has pioneered projects such as phosphate recovery via ion-selective membranes. He also serves as a Senior Advisor at Wetsus and contributes to initiatives like the 4TU.Centre High-Tech Materials. Prof. de Smet teaches Analytical Chemistry and related courses, and his work integrates fundamental materials science with practical environmental solutions.

Education: PhD from Wageningen University (2006), postdoctoral research at the Ian Wark Research Institute, and an NWO Veni Grant for polysaccharide studies. He transitioned to TU Delft as an Assistant Professor before becoming an Associate Professor at Wageningen in 2016 and later a full Professor.

Research interests center on molecular control of chemical interfaces, with emphasis on materials for ion-selective applications. His lab explores polymers, surface chemistry, and sustainable technologies for resource recovery. Recent advancements include ERC-funded projects on nitrate-chloride separation and wastewater-derived salt extraction.

Scientific awards include the NWO Veni Grant (2007), ERC Consolidator Grant (2015), and an ERC Proof of Concept Grant (2024). He collaborates with industry and academic partners, contributing to Wetsus and the Dutch Chemistry Council.

Grants and advising span projects like the NanoNextNL program on sensors and Organic Solvent Nanofiltration (NWO ISPT). His lab’s innovations address global challenges in water treatment and sustainable resource management.