Robin van Velzen

Robin van Velzen is a Lecturer in Biosystematics at Wageningen University & Research. He holds both a doctorate and engineering degree (dr.ir.) and serves as a co-supervisor for multiple PhD students.

His research spans several key areas in plant biology and genomics:

• Phylogenetics and evolutionary biology
• Plant genomics and phylogenomics
• Cannabis genetics and chemical diversity
• Root nodule symbiosis in legumes
• Comparative transcriptomics

Van Velzen's recent work demonstrates a strong focus on applying genomic approaches to understand plant evolution and symbiosis. His research on cannabis has received significant media attention, with studies showing that commercial cannabis labels often don't match the actual genetic composition of the products. He also investigates nitrogen-fixing root nodule symbiosis, which has implications for sustainable agriculture.

His scientific contributions include:

• Research on cannabis phylogeography and genetic diversity
• Studies on ethylene biosynthesis in legumes
• Comparative phylogenomics of root nodule symbiosis
• Evolutionary analysis of plant gene families

As a supervisor, van Velzen co-mentors PhD students working on diverse topics including species differentiation, genomic diversity of crop pests, and insect embryogenesis. His collaborative approach is evident in his extensive network of research partnerships across multiple institutions.