Ad Oskam was born in Amsterdam where he spent his youth. After his doctoral degree in chemistry in 1964, he obtained his PhD with Prof. Harm Gerding in 1971 on a thesis on vibrational and rotation spectroscopy of inorganic top molecules. Subsequently, he developed his research in inorganic chemistry of main group and transition metals using vibration- and photo-electron spectroscopy. Ad was appointed lecturer in 1974 and full professor of inorganic chemistry in 1980. In more than four decades his fruitful research led to some forty dissertations and more than 250 scientific publications.

Fertile research and highly valued education

With the arrival of Prof. Kees Vrieze, the field really came to blossom at UvA. Together with dr. Dick Stufkens, Ad applied time-resolved and vibrational spectroscopy and (surface) Raman spectroscopy. He was also at the cradle of matrix isolation spectroscopy. His fundamental research yielded many insights into the rich chemistry and reactivity of inorganic (photo)systems and (photo)catalysis.

Ads educational work has always been highly regarded; his lectures in particular were legendary. He also made great contributions to the creation of a European Bachelor in which he guarded the quality and content of chemistry education. On this subject he was one of the key figures within the EU educational organization. Ad also did an excellent job in administration. He held many local, national and international positions, including dean of the former (sub)faculty of chemistry in the period 1982-85.

A powerful organizer

Ad was a very good organizer with a great sense of detail. After his early retirement in 1998 (voluntary, to make room for young scientists), Ad remained at the UvA until 2015, unremunerated. He put his energy, expertise and commitment permanently and generously at the service of the successive chemistry institutes and the faculty. In the later period, he was particularly active on an organizational level. We are grateful for his indispensable involvement - down to the smallest but relevant details - with the relocation of the institute to the Science Park in 2009-2010. Starting years before, he prepared and supervised this far-reaching event in a meticulous and skilful manner. It is just one of the many examples of things for which Ad took responsibility and brought about a good result.

We will remember Ad Oskam as a respected scientist, an honest administrator, a good friend and colleague and a warm-hearted person. Our sympathy goes out to his wife Lies, his children, family and friends.