Professor Derk Loorbach Named Scientific Lead of Climate Research Initiative Netherlands

Professor Derk Loorbach Named Scientific Lead of Climate Research Initiative Netherlands

(IN BRIEF) Professor Derk Loorbach has been appointed as the scientific lead of the Climate Research Initiative Netherlands (KIN). Loorbach, an expert in socio-economic transitions, will guide the scientific direction of KIN, focusing on systemic transitions and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration to address climate change. He will also continue his roles as director of DRIFT and professor at Erasmus University Rotterdam. His leadership is expected to enhance KIN’s impact and visibility in the field of climate research.

(PRESS RELEASE) THE HAGUE, 3-Sep-2024 — /EuropaWire/ — The Climate Research Initiative Netherlands (KIN) has announced the appointment of Professor Derk Loorbach as its scientific lead. Loorbach, a prominent figure in the field of socio-economic transitions, brings extensive experience and a visionary approach to his new role. He will oversee the scientific direction of KIN’s activities while continuing his work as the director of the international action research institute DRIFT and as a professor at Erasmus University Rotterdam.

Loorbach’s appointment is seen as a significant move for KIN, given his deep expertise in transition research across various social domains. His leadership is expected to drive the initiative’s mission to promote systemic transitions and foster interdisciplinary collaboration essential for addressing the complex challenges of climate change.

In his new role, Loorbach will focus on advancing KIN’s vision of transitioning to a climate-neutral and resilient society by co-developing innovative research funding models and building strategic partnerships. His dual roles at DRIFT and KIN are anticipated to create synergies that will enhance both institutions’ impact on the scientific and social landscape.

Managing director Michiel van den Hout expressed confidence in Loorbach’s ability to elevate KIN’s profile and influence, citing his impressive network and experience in managing cross-disciplinary cooperation. Loorbach himself emphasized the urgency of turning scientific insights into actionable, equitable transitions, aiming to inspire and engage stakeholders across sectors.

With this appointment, KIN solidifies its leadership team, positioning itself to play a crucial role in shaping the future of climate research and policy in the Netherlands.

About KIN
At KIN, researchers work together with societal stakeholders to accelerate transitions for a sustainable and climate-neutral society by 2050. This initiative was founded by the Netherlands Organisation for Scientific Research (NWO) and the KNAW. KIN aims to remove limiting and counteracting incentives in the scientific system to allow science to contribute optimally to solutions to the climate crisis. KIN facilitates conversation and collaboration between researchers, policymakers, industry and civil society organisations through (international) initiatives, programmes, networks and events.

Media Contact:

Jennifer Bendsneijder
Spokesperson
+31 6 47141061
j.bendsneijder@nwo.nl

Source: NWO