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Meet Hester Vermeulen, Professor Nursing Science at IQ Health and working at the Radboud University Medical Center since 2016. She is involved in the research programs Value-Based Networked Care.
If you weren't a scientist, what do you think you would be doing today?
If I hadn’t advanced from being a nurse to my current position as a nursing science professor, I might have chosen to become an urban planner. That way, I could also contribute to designing and developing a healthy and liveable environment for people.
If you could travel anywhere in the world right now, where would you go and what would you do first?
At this point in my life, my favourite thing is to travel to southern Spain. The first thing I’ll do there is furnish our holiday home, and then reflect on all the wonderful journeys I’ve made across various continents—Oceania being my favourite.
What's your favorite way to de-stress after a busy day at work?
After work or during my free time, I need to see greenery. Whether it's by walking or cycling—it doesn't matter. Also sitting in the jacuzzi and gazing at the stars really helps!
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve received about conducting research?
If you can't explain your research clearly and simply, you still have some learning to do.
What unique tradition or ritual in your lab do you think contributes to its success and camaraderie?
I’m not sure if it’s unique, but one tradition I’ve truly established is continuously connecting researchers with one another and encouraging them to learn from each other across different domains.
What inspired you to pursue your current research topic, and how do you hope your findings will impact the field?
My research initially focused on substantiating nursing practices, but it has increasingly shifted toward exploring how to create a professional and innovative work environment for nurses as well. Looking ahead, this is truly an area of impact, as we will inevitably face shortages in resources and healthcare professionals—especially nurses. If we want to keep healthcare accessible, investing in this area is absolutely essential for the near future and for the future of our children.
In summary
What began as a deep dive into underpinning daily nursing practice has gradually evolved into something broader and more future-oriented: understanding how we can shape professional, inspiring work environments where nurses feel empowered to grow, contribute, and thrive. For me, this shift reflects a growing urgency. As we move forward, we’ll be confronted with real challenges—scarcity of resources, and above all, a shortage of skilled healthcare professionals, especially nurses. If we truly want to keep care accessible, humane and person centered, we must invest in the people who carry it. Not just for today’s system, but for the wellbeing of future generations. Creating space for nurses to flourish is not a luxury—it’s a necessity. That’s why, going forward, my research will focus even more deeply on how to build and sustain such environments—ones that nurture professionalism, innovation, and joy in the workplace.
