Dear members of the RadioNet community,
I am writing to inform you of an important transition within our organization. René Vermeulen, Director of ILT, the ASTRON Radio Observatory department, and founding Director of the recently launched LOFAR ERIC, will be retiring from his duties with effect from March 1, 2024.
René has been a pillar of our community, contributing immensely to the success of RadioNet and our related activities. As a longstanding Board member he has played a key role in securing funding through successful applications at the European Commission. His efforts have not only strengthened the European astronomical community but also fostered consensus and provided invaluable strategic guidance.
René’s departure will undoubtedly leave a void within our community. We will miss his expertise, his camaraderie, and his unwavering support. He has been not only a valuable expert but also a cherished colleague and friend.
We extend our heartfelt wishes to René for the future. While he may be stepping back from his formal duties, we hope to continue benefiting from his expertise in the years to come.
Please join me in expressing our gratitude to René for his outstanding contributions and in wishing him the very best in this new chapter of his life.
Warm regards,
Anton Zensus