Dutch Scientists Win Prestigious Klokhuis Science Prize for “Smart Toilet Seat” Research
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The annual Klokhuis Science Prize, designed to connect young audiences with cutting-edge Dutch scientific research, has been awarded to Marjolijn Duijvestein and Lotte Hazeleger for their work on a “smart toilet seat.” The winning research, a collaboration between Radboudumc and OnePlanet, will be featured in an upcoming episode produced by Het Klokhuis, a popular science program for children and young people.
Bridging the Gap Between Research and Youth Engagement
The Klokhuis Science Prize serves as a vital bridge between the often-complex world of scientific inquiry and the curiosity of a younger generation. According to organizers, the prize aims to make Dutch research accessible and engaging for children and young people. Universities, colleges, and UMCs throughout the Netherlands are encouraged to submit their work for consideration.
The selection process involves a rigorous two-stage evaluation. First, a jury will narrow down the submissions to a top 10. Subsequently, the public will have the opportunity to vote for their favorite research project. The winner will be officially announced during the InScience Film Festival in Nijmegen, taking place from March 3 to 8.
Award Ceremony and Public Presentation
The presentation of the Klokhuis Science Prize is scheduled for Sunday afternoon, March 8, at the Mariënburg Library in Nijmegen. The episode detailing the winning research – the innovative “smart toilet seat” – will also be presented at this event.
Researchers interested in participating in the 2026 competition are encouraged to register their work before January 16. Detailed conditions and registration information can be found on the official website.
Previous Winner Highlighted Parkinson’s Research
The announcement of the 2025 winner follows the success of the 2023 episode, “Dad can’t walk, but he can hop,” which explored Parkinson’s disease in collaboration with Jorik Nonnekes and Anouk Tosserams. This demonstrates the prize’s consistent commitment to showcasing impactful and relatable scientific advancements.
Seeking Support for Submissions
For those needing assistance with their submissions, a science spokesperson, Pauline Dekhuijzen, is available to help refine research descriptions for a young audience. Individuals with questions or seeking further information are also encouraged to reach out for support.
