The Dutch scientific research organisation NWO has awarded this year’s three Spinoza research grants to a physicist, a neurologist and an ecologist.

The awards are each worth €2.5m to be spent on research projects over the next five years.
Twente University physicist Albert van den Berg won his award for his work on computer chip-based mini laboratories which he uses to develop new medical equipment.
Leiden University professor Michel Ferrari’s award is based on his research into migraines and migraine genes.
And Wageningen agricultural university professor Marten Scheffer is recognised for his work in the field of aquatic ecology.
The Spinoza awards, named after the 17th century philosopher, are considered the Dutch equivalent of the Nobel prize.