Ronald Plasterk

Ronald Hans Anton Plasterk (born June 12, 1957) is a Dutch politician and professor of molecular biology who served as Minister of Education, Culture and Science from 2012 to 2017. A member of the Labour Party (PvdA), he has been a member of the House of Representatives since 2010 and was Leader of the Labour Party in the House of Representatives from 2016 to 2017.

Plasterk was born in The Hague and studied biology at the University of Leiden. He received his PhD in 1985 and became a professor of molecular biology at the University of Amsterdam in 1991. Plasterk's research focused on the genetics of development, and he made significant contributions to the study of microRNAs.

In 2007, Plasterk was appointed Minister of Education, Culture and Science in the fourth cabinet of Prime Minister Jan Peter Balkenende. He served in this position until 2010, when he was elected to the House of Representatives. In 2016, he became Leader of the Labour Party in the House of Representatives, and he served in this position until 2017.

Plasterk is a prominent figure in the Dutch political landscape. He is known for his expertise in science and education, and he is a strong advocate for investment in these areas. He is also a vocal critic of the current government's austerity measures, and he has called for a more progressive approach to economic policy.

In addition to his political career, Plasterk is also a successful author. He has written several books on science and education, including "The Great Escape: Health, Wealth, and the Origins of Inequality" (2015) and "The Future of Brain Research" (2018).

Plasterk is a highly respected figure in both the scientific and political communities, and he is considered to be one of the leading voices in the Labour Party. He is a strong advocate for social justice and equality, and he is committed to making the Netherlands a more just and prosperous society.