Rizal Sebastian appointed visiting professor

The Hague University of Applied Sciences congratulates lector Rizal Sebastian on his appointment as Visiting Professor at London South Bank University (LSBU) in the United Kingdom. As of 1 November 2025, he is affiliated with the College of Technology and Environment and the Digital x Data Research Centre for three years. Focus area: ‘future-proof smart buildings & cities’. Rizal will combine this appointment with his current position as chair of the Future Urban Systems research group at The Hague University of Applied Sciences (THUAS). 

Exchange of students and colleagues 

Nellie van de Griend, Director of the Faculty of Technology, Innovation and Society (TIS), summarises it as follows: ‘This honourable appointment of Rizal Sebastian creates wonderful opportunities for collaboration with LSBU, not only for the exchange of researchers but also for lecturers and students.’ And that is exactly how Rizal sees it too: ‘LSBU is a well-established knowledge institute that is open to new ideas. Our approach is similar to theirs: multidisciplinary, practice-oriented and focused on impact.’ 

Colorful working environment 

Rizal is therefore looking forward to the collaboration: ‘I obtained my MSc degree at LSBU, and I know that the students and professors literally come from all over the world. I am really looking forward to working in that diverse environment. In addition to collaborating on international research projects, I will give guest lectures and supervise graduation and doctoral candidates. I also look forward to exchanging knowledge, including about the Professional Doctorate.’  

Invitation to share ideas 

Rizal continues: ‘This visiting professorship is not only a new role for me, but also an important step for my research group, for the faculty and for the Centre of Expertise Mission Zero.’ It opens new opportunities for everyone. I would therefore like to invite colleagues to share their ideas with me about how I may fulfil this role. Please let me know if you have any suggestions for joint research or educational activities.’ 

Joint commitment 

The strategic contact that led to this appointment came about at the end of 2024 when chairpersons from ten British universities visited THUAS to strengthen cooperation between the two countries. Elisabeth Minnemann, Chair of the Executive Board, commented on Rizal’s appointment: ‘This is a great outcome of last year's visit by the Universities UK International delegation to The Hague University of Applied Sciences. With the United Kingdom's renewed association with Horizon Europe research framework, this collaboration underlines our joint commitment to tackling societal challenges through practice-oriented research and strong European partnerships.’