From containers to the cloud – How control points turn into chokepoints
The Netherlands is deeply embedded in global value chains. Which foreign control points could turn into chokepoints for the Netherlands?


Within TNO Vector, I specialize in transformative innovation policy, which means policy aimed at fundamental societal changes (transitions and transformations) to address complex societal challenges. A specific current focus is on control points for technological sovereignty and open strategic autonomy.
I am also a high-level policy expert currently advising the European Commission on innovation policy as part of the ESIR group. In addition, I advise the Commission on the future of European Partnerships as a member of the high-level expert group for “Directional Initiatives.”
My expertise lies in translating insights from science into (policy) practice. To achieve this, I work closely with various stakeholders inside and outside the organization, providing both substantive analyses and process guidance.
Before joining TNO, I conducted my PhD research on digital disruptive innovations at the University of Groningen and carried out postdoctoral research on the role of AI in science at Aalto University in Finland. I also worked at the Rathenau Institute, where I focused on research and dialogue about the societal aspects of science, technology, and innovation.
Homans, Wouter (former TNO Vector intern), Geurts A. en Wesseling, J.H. (Universiteit Utrecht) Legitimising an emerging transformer mission: an abductive exploration of energy poverty policy in the Netherlands | Science and Public Policy | Oxford Academic
D. Pisa, J. Vierhout, A. Geurts, T. van Bree (2024). Grip op Control Points: een verkenning van de literatuur.
Geurts, A. & Cepa, K., 2023, in: Long Range Planning, 56(4). Transforming the music industry: How platformization drives business ecosystem envelopment - ScienceDirect
Geurts, A. Gutknecht, R., Warnke, P., Goetheer, A., Schirrmeister, E., Bakker, B. & Meissner, S., 2022, in: Futures & Foresight Science, 4(1). New perspectives for data‐supported foresight: The hybrid AI‐expert approach - Geurts - 2022 - FUTURES & FORESIGHT SCIENCE - Wiley Online Library
Geurts, A., Geerdink, T. & Sprenkeling, M., 2022, in: Technology in Society, 68. Accelerated innovation in crises: The role of collaboration in the development of alternative ventilators during the COVID-19 pandemic - ScienceDirect
Geurts, A., Broekhuizen, T., Dolfsma, W. & Cepa, K., 2022, in: Industrial Marketing Management,105. Tensions in multilateral coopetition: Findings from the disrupted music industry - ScienceDirect
Himanen, L., Geurts, A., Foster, A.S. & Rinke, P., 2019, in: Advanced Science, 6(21). Data‐Driven Materials Science: Status, Challenges, and Perspectives - Himanen - 2019 - Advanced Science - Wiley Online Library
2018 ISPIM Innovation Management Dissertation Award