Erasmus Extra

We all grow older, but not everyone ages in the same way. Lieke Kuiper, a biomedical researcher at Erasmus MC, is investigating which biomarkers influence our actual biological age. Why is it that one person is still running a marathon at the age of 70, whilst another can no longer climb the stairs without groaning, and what role do lifestyle habits such as drinking beer play in this?

A line of coke at a party; for many people, it’s all part of the fun. But behind that line lies a world of crime. In this episode, we speak to criminologist Robby Roks, who is affiliated with the FORT-PORT research project, about how the cocaine economy affects the city.

We’re talking about young drug dealers, the role of social media and the theatre production DOPE. The criminologist and his fellow academics were closely involved in the production, which highlights the dilemmas in the fight against drug-related crime. Before the show, you’ll even hear Robby rapping about his research.

• Take a look at the DOPE website to view the playlist
• More on the research project FORT-PORT 
• Want to know more about other research? Visit our online magazine Erasmus Extra.

Every year on Prinsjesdag, the national budget sets out how Dutch taxpayers' money is being spent. However, it is never just about the figures. Emotions and expectations also play a significant role. In this episode, we speak to Professor of Economics Robert Dur. How does he look at the national budget plans? Are we heading in the right direction?

The coalition parties have failed to reach agreement, and according to Dur, this is reflected in the national budget plans. 'What we’re seeing now isn’t even an opening bid, but more like an interim result of the internal negotiations', Dur says. He believes the government is putting off major decisions and doing far too little to tackle the major challenges currently facing the Netherlands.

• Want to know more about other research? Visit our online magazine Erasmus Extra.