Ann Verhetsel

Ann Verhetsel is a Full Professor at the University of Antwerp since 2008, chairing the Department of Transport and Regional Economics within the Faculty of Applied Economics. She holds a Doctorate in Science (1989) from KU Leuven, specializing in behavioral and educational geography. She also earned a Certificate in Business Economics from Antwerp Management School (AMS).

Education:

• Candidacy and Licentiate in Geography (Socio-Economic focus), KU Leuven (1978-1982)
• Doctorate in Science (Geography Group), KU Leuven (1989)
• Certificate in Business Economics, Antwerp Management School (1990-1991)

Research Focus: Her work bridges geography, economics, and spatial planning, with emphasis on mobility (commuting, urban logistics), smart specialization policies, venture capital geography, and retail location. Ongoing projects include a 5-year study on provincial economic policy for Antwerp Province and research on e-commerce's spatial impact.

Academic Roles:

• Academic Director of the Master in Real Estate Management (AMS)
• Teaches Real Estate Markets, Business Location, and Urban Geography across multiple faculties
• Chair of the Spatial Planning Association (VRP)

Awards: Elected Member of the Royal Flemish Academy of Sciences (2013).