Merel Vergaaij

Merel Vergaaij has a diverse work experience spanning over a decade. Merel currently holds the position of Senior Data Scientist at Valcon, starting in 2022. Prior to that, they worked as a PhD Candidate at the University of Glasgow from 2018 to 2022, where they focused on the economic modeling and trajectory optimization for asteroid resources. Merel conducted research on the potential of asteroid mining to solve sustainability issues on Earth.

During their time at CGI in 2018, Merel worked as a Software Engineer in the Space Department. Their responsibilities included proposal writing for large projects in the space security domain and providing technical support to engineers working on various space-related projects.

Merel also gained experience as a Management Assistant at TU Delft Space Institute from 2017 to 2018. Their role involved organizing activities to foster collaboration between different faculties within Delft University of Technology and the Dutch aerospace community.

Before that, Merel held positions at D.S.R. Proteus-Eretes, including President of the Real-Estate Foundation from 2015 to 2018 and Member of the Board from 2014 to 2015. Merel was responsible for managing real estate and served as a board member, contributing to the overall functioning of the organization.

Merel began their career as an Exam Tutor at Stichting Studiebegeleiding Leiden in 2012, where they provided intensive training to high school seniors on economic topics, fostering their academic development in a team environment.

Additionally, they gained research experience as a Research Intern at the Colorado Center for Astrodynamics Research in 2016. Merel investigated optimal solar-sail trajectories and applied principles of orbital dynamics and optimal control solvers to enhance spacecraft capabilities.

Merel also served as a Quality Control Group Member at the Faculty for Aerospace Engineering, TU Delft, from 2011 to 2016. Merel evaluated courses, discussed findings with professors, and aimed to enhance the quality of the academic program.

Lastly, they were part of the Winter Games Committee at D.S.R. Proteus-Eretes, organizing a national rowing regatta in 2012, and worked as a Recreation Manager at Campsite l'Estaubiere in 2011.

Throughout their career, Merel has demonstrated a strong work ethic and a passion for space-related endeavors, data analysis, and interdisciplinary research.

Merel Vergaaij earned a Master's Degree in Space Exploration from Delft University of Technology, completing their studies from 2015 to 2018. Prior to that, they obtained a Bachelor's Degree in Aerospace Engineering from the same university, studying from 2011 to 2014. In 2013, they took part in a minor program in Aerospace, Aeronautical, and Astronautical Engineering at Iowa State University. Additionally, Merel has obtained a certification in IBM Data Science Specialization from Coursera in July 2021.