In 2025, LAP initiated an award to recognize individuals who make a meaningful impact on the PhD community at LUMC.

This page celebrates the past winners of the award, who have gone above and beyond to support, inspire, and uplift others.

Do you have someone who made a difference in your PhD journey? This could be a fellow PhD candidate, supervisor, librarian or someone else at the LUMC
whose contribution should not go unnoticed. Nominate them for the next PhD Safe Space Sweet! Share their story and let us celebrate the unsung heroes of academia.

Bob Siegerink (Graduate School) has been awarded for his and Graduate School's effort in creating the PhD Thesis Framework! This significant achievement results from months of work, discussions, and consultations between the Graduate School and PhD candidates. The framework addresses PhD community concerns, recognizes the unique nature of each PhD trajectory, yet provides consistent criteria across all departments. Its guidelines support ongoing conversations between PhD candidates and their supervisors to work towards a solid thesis, creating a safe space between PhD candidates and supervisors. Congratulations on this well-deserved recognition for setting the foundation for more flexibility in the PhD trajectory!

Merel van Diepen (Clinical Epidemiology)! Her PhD candidates describe Merel as a caring and understanding person who always places their well-being and growth above all else. She manages to create a safe environment where challenges and mistakes are shared as learning opportunities. Merel has been an incredible mentor during the PhD journey, ensuring her pupils feel heard in both their research and personal development. She provides constructive feedback, offers thoughtful guidance and makes the PhD process feel less overwhelming for them.

Caroline Serlie (Manager of the Centre for Innovation of Medical Education and the Research Group Research of Medical Education)! She is a true pilar for her PhD candidates. Through regular 1:1 meetings, active listening, and genuine care, she creates a safe and supportive environment. One PhD candidate shared, “She always has our back and follows up on what we discuss.” She goes beyond her managerial role, offering encouragement, empathy, and consistent support — setting a great example for meaningful mentorship.

Thijs van Osch! Thijs, professor in Radiology, has been recognized by the board for his exceptional support and kindness. Thijs regularly checks in with his PhD candidates. For example at the daily 11 o’clock meeting or at the Friday Drinks at Hepatho. We believe Thijs embodies the spirit of a true safe space during the challenging PhD journey.