Flemming R. Cassee is one of RIVM’s two chief science officers (CSO) and professor of Inhalation Toxicology at Utrecht University, Institute for Risk Assessment Science. He researches the health effects of airborne particulates, including fine particles, nanomaterials and microplastics, gaseous components like ozone and nitrogen dioxide, micro-organisms and complex mixtures such as wood smoke, airplane cabin air and the indoor environment.

‘RIVM makes scientific knowledge accessible to policymakers, so that they are able to make well-founded decisions. Its independent, non-commercial position with a focus on societal impact is very appealing to me and gives me the opportunity to combine my role as a subject matter expert with international partnerships.’

Cassee loves working as part of a multidisciplinary team, so that he can link science, policy and regulation. He publishes regularly in international scientific journals, presents research outcomes at national and international conferences and is a member of several national and international advisory committees. In addition, he is involved in several research projects funded by the European Commission in the fields of nanomaterials (SUPREME), air pollution (VERA) and new test methods (CHIASMA).

In his role as CSO, Cassee is delegated commissioning client of RIVM’s Strategic Programme. He advises bodies like the Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management, the Health Council of the Netherlands, the World Health Organization (WHO) and the European Commission. As a professor, he contributes to education in his field and supervises Master’s and PhD students.

Areas of expertise

  • Inhalation toxicology
  • Fine particles and air pollution
  • Nanomaterials, microplastics and nanoplastics
  • Dosimetry of particulates and fibres in the lungs

Additional functions

Publications

Publications can be found at Researchgate and uu.nl.