Douwe van Hinsbergen

Douwe van Hinsbergen is a Professor of Global Tectonics and Paleogeography at the Faculty of Geosciences, Utrecht University. He leads research on mantle dynamics and theoretical geophysics, focusing on reconstructing Earth's geological history through plate tectonic modeling and paleomagnetic analysis.

His work spans broad geological disciplines, including plate tectonics, structural geology, and geodynamics. Recent research has explored the lost continent of Greater Adria and tectonic processes in the Mediterranean and Rhine regions.

Key research areas:

• 4D plate reconstructions linking surface geology to mantle structure
• Paleomagnetism and subduction zone dynamics
• Ophiolite studies in mountain belts

Scientific recognition:

• Awarded an NWO VICI grant for global plate reorganization studies

Outreach and collaboration:

• Co-author of the book The Boundless River (2021) on Rhine geology
• Contributor to the Atlas of the Underworld project
• Active in media coverage across 15+ international outlets (2019-2024)