Semiha Denktas

Prof. Semiha Denktas is a Full Professor at Erasmus School of Social and Behavioural Sciences (ESSB), Rotterdam. She holds concurrent roles as Chief Diversity Officer (CDO) at Erasmus University Rotterdam and leads the Behavioural Change pillar at ESSB. Previously, she served as Head of Social & Behavioural Science department at Erasmus University College (2013–2018). Her research focuses on behavioral interventions, health equity, and social cohesion, particularly for marginalized groups. She founded the Behavioural Insights Group Rotterdam (BIG’R) and HEALTHY’R, collaborating with Rotterdam municipality to design evidence-based public health initiatives.

Education: PhD in Clinical & Health Psychology from Utrecht University, specializing in healthcare use among elderly migrants. Additional expertise in Integration & Migration Studies from Erasmus University. Active in leadership roles including board membership in Female Academics Moving toward Equity (FAME) and Coalitie Rotterdammers voor Mekaar.

Research interests emphasize translating behavioral science into policy through cross-disciplinary projects. Over 117 publications span behavioral interventions, healthcare accessibility, and systemic inequities. Supervised 7 academic works focusing on diversity, health disparities, and public sector innovation.