Hester Bijl, the rector magnificus of Leiden University, will be leaving her position in January to become rector of TU Delft, her alma mater, amidst a series of controversies during her tenure. These controversies include a confrontation on camera regarding a lecturer’s past remarks, the removal and subsequent reinstallation of a painting depicting former university board members, and criticism over the university’s handling of pro-Palestine protests and its stance on cooperation with Israeli institutions.

Bijl’s departure comes after a period of increasing unrest at Leiden University, particularly surrounding the Palestinian issue. The incident involving Rob Oudkerk confronting her about a lecturer who had previously called for the bombing of Tel Aviv sparked a minor scandal, with Bijl’s response being criticized as awkward and insufficient.

Earlier in her rectorship, Bijl was involved in the ‘#kunstgate’ incident, where she participated in taking down a painting of former university board members. This action drew the ire of the artist, Rein Dool, and led to a national media storm and parliamentary questions. The university eventually reinstalled the painting.

Bijl, who was the first female dean and rector magnificus at Leiden University, has expressed that she is leaving with “mixed feelings”. She has faced criticism for being too distant from the university community and for not managing the situation surrounding pro-Palestine protests effectively.

Her advice to women in science is to proactively seek opportunities and make their aspirations known. Prior to becoming rector, Bijl held the chair of aerodynamics at TU Delft and has been a strong advocate for emancipation and increased female representation in science. As rector, she also addressed misconduct cases involving prominent scientists.