Abstracts of the afternoon talks

Jan Leuridan, Independent Investor and Advisor (ex-CEO Siemens Industry Software NV, ex-SVP Siemens Simcenter
“Impact of (Applied) Mathematics on Industrial Software”
“Industrial software” is broadly referred to as software to enable all stages of the product life cycle, including applications for Design (CAD), Engineering (CAE/Simulation), Computer Based Testing (CAT), Manufacturing (CAM) and Operations Management (MOM/MES), related Product Data Management (PDM), and stretching into applications for Asset Performance Management (APM). In short it defines the Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) market, a market that has emerged since the 1960’s, and represents +25 B$ in software, approximately twice that including related services, and growing at +7.5% CAGR.
The core applications making up this market, CAD and CAE/Simulation, started in the 1960’s, enabled by mathematical breakthroughs, both in Europe and US. This will be discussed and illustrated. The presentation also touches on software for data collection and data processing, CAT, and how also that field has been influenced by mathematical breakthroughs starting in 1960’s.
The impact of AI on the PLM market will finally be touched upon, including reflections on how AI could contribute/accelerate innovation in this market.

Dennis Roubos, Chief Technology Officer at Simbox – the data science company for healthcare.
‘’The Role of Mathematics in Enhancing Hospital Efficiency and Decision-Making’’
We explore the vital role of mathematics in improving efficiency and decision-making within the healthcare sector, especially hospitals. As hospitals face increasing pressure due to aging populations, rising costs, and limited resources, mathematics is key to support strategic and operational planning. A key focus of this talk is on the challenges we faced to support these hospitals by mathematics. We will discuss mathematical techniques commonly applied in this context, such as queuing theory, simulation, optimization models, and data analytics. Through real-world examples, we will demonstrate how these methods help hospitals balance demand and capacity, reduce variability, and improve patient flow. The talk aims to show not only the technical aspects but also the practical impact of applied mathematics.

Ineke Meuffels, Head of Product Development, Rhythm
‘’From Math to Meaningful Impact: Applying Quantitative Thinking in (Healthcare) Logistics’’
With a background in econometrics and a fascination for the practical power of mathematics, my career started at ORTEC, where I worked on logistical challenges for companies like TNT Express, DHL, Heineken and AMREF. Today, I continue that journey at Rhythm, where I focus on healthcare—supporting hospitals and home care organizations in making better logistical decisions.
In this talk, I’ll share how mathematical thinking helps tackle complex, real-life problems, and how my role in product development bridges deep quantitative modelling with practical implementation. But just as important are the lessons learned along the way: what changes when you move from theory to practice, and what mindset is needed when developing technology that truly fits the real world.

NWO-TTW representative
‘’What are the possibilities/options at TTW’’
NWO-TTW (Applied and Engineering Sciences) funds and supports research that bridges fundamental science and practical applications. Its aim is to stimulate innovation and strengthen the link between academia and industry by funding collaborative projects in engineering and applied sciences, fostering technology development, and promoting knowledge transfer to society and the private sector.

Melania Calinescu, CEO | Founder AI4ALL Solutions
‘’Mathematical Precision in the Age of AI Hype’’
The journey from academic mathematics to industry leadership requires translating mathematical rigor into business value while maintaining intellectual integrity. In this talk, I will share my path from PhD mathematician to SVP of AI Strategy at data.ai and ultimately to founding AI4ALL Solutions in Silicon Valley. I will reflect on the pivotal moments that shaped this trajectory and how the mindset I built while studying Business Mathematics and Informatics at VU University Amsterdam provided the foundation for navigating complex, high-stakes decisions in the world of artificial intelligence. Today my work ranges from advising investors on multimillion-dollar AI investment due diligence to helping executives design responsible AI transformation roadmaps. Across all of it, the throughline remains the same: cutting through hype by grounding AI strategy in the mathematics that actually drives it: probability theory, optimization and pattern recognition. The rapid spread of LLMs has created both excitement and deep misconceptions about their capabilities and limits and significant anxiety about AI as a transformative technology. For the next generation of mathematicians and computer scientists, the opportunity is immense: rigorous, structured thinking is the rarest and most valuable skill in this environment. The ability to apply mathematical precision to messy, real-world problems, while anchoring it in business context and human values, is transformative. My message to you: your university training is the path to AI leadership.

Diederik Fokkema, ADC Data & AI Consultancy
‘’The common denominator’’
A 40-year bird’s-eye view of a variety of mathematics, work and applications.

Sing Cheung, Senior Compliance Officer, Algo Advisory, Optiver
‘’From Theory to Trading, Research, Development, Risk & Compliance: A Mathematician’s Journey into the Financial Industry’’
Transitioning from academia to industry can open unexpected doors. In this talk, I will share my journey from a PhD in applied mathematics to working across trading, research, development, risk, and compliance within the financial sector. I will reflect on how mathematical reasoning and problem-solving continue to shape my daily work, the challenges encountered when adapting to a fast-paced environment, and how mathematicians can leverage their skills to create impact beyond academia.