M. (Theo) SpekView profile
Professor
Prof. M. (Theo) Spek is a Full Professor of Landscape History at the University of Groningen (since 2010) and directs the interdisciplinary Centre for Landscape Studies. His work combines cultural, ecological, and earth science approaches to address modern challenges like climate change and sustainable agriculture. He leads a Master’s program in Landscape History, producing over 250 specialists since 2008. He holds advisory roles in national and EU landscape policy, including the National Parks Committee and European Commission heritage panels. Education: PhD awarded by Wageningen University (1994), with prior research roles at Wageningen (1990–2003) and the National Heritage Agency (2004–2010). Research Focus: Wetland landscapes of the Wadden Sea, medieval sandy regions of the Low Countries, historical ecology, and landscape biographies as planning tools. His expertise bridges academia and practical policy applications. Activities: Board memberships include the Wadden Academy, Landscape & Heritage Series (Amsterdam UP), and the Harry de Vroome Working Group. He contributes to public engagement through media appearances and authored/co-authored over 100 publications including books, articles, and peer-reviewed chapters. Labs/Teams: Centre for Landscape Studies (UG) focuses on interdisciplinary research, education, and public outreach in cultural landscapes. Collaborates internationally on projects like the PECSRL conference and Drentsche Aa hydrology studies.










