Marcel van der Perk

Dr. Marcel van der Perk is an Associate Professor in the Department of Physical Geography at Utrecht University's Faculty of Geosciences. His research focuses on geomorphology, hydrology, and environmental geochemistry, with a particular emphasis on sediment dynamics in river systems and deltas. He specializes in understanding sediment transport mechanisms, contamination pathways, and the impacts of climate change and human activities on riverine and wetland environments.

Van der Perk's work integrates field studies, remote sensing, and modeling to analyze sediment budgets, metal pollution, and ecological processes. He leads projects on the Rhine River and its delta, examining suspended sediment trends, flood impacts, and wetland restoration. Key research themes include sediment quality, deltaic sedimentation, and the interplay between natural and anthropogenic drivers in fluvial systems.

His contributions span over 150 peer-reviewed articles, including studies on the Rhine's sediment decline, metal contamination in European rivers, and climate adaptation strategies. He collaborates internationally, addressing transboundary environmental challenges and informing sustainable river management policies.