Dear Colleagues and Friends,
I have accepted a new position as Director General at the international research institute in Mexico, CIMMYT, starting June 1st 2015, and, as a result, will resign as rector magnificus and vice-chairman of the Executive Board of Wageningen UR. I will, however, continue in my position as professor of Wageningen university.
It has been an honour to have been appointed to the Executive Board for a third term, and I would have gladly completed this term. However, since my work at the international rice research institute IRRI in the Philippines, I have always remained open to the opportunity of working for an international research organisation once again. The request from CIMMYT presented me and my wife Nynke with the perfect opportunity to fulfil this dream.
My new position will allow me to contribute to the biggest challenge we face this century: Food security for the nine billion inhabitants our Earth will soon accommodate. CIMMYT is the oldest and largest institute within the CGIAR consortium. Its international impact is considerable, as its research centres on two of the world’s main crops: corn and wheat.
As I will continue in my position as professor at Wageningen University, I remain tied to the organisation. But departing after so many years of working within our wonderful organisation does feel strange. During my career at Wageningen UR I have had the pleasure of collaborating with staff, faculty and students whose combined efforts have led us to develop into a world class organisation. Something we could not have dreamed of a decade ago.
I thank you all sincerely for the excellent collaboration over the past years. Wageningen UR will always hold a special place in my heart.
With this message I want to inform you personally of my decision and hope to keep in touch in the future.
Sincerely,
Martin Kropff