Frank van der Meulen

Dr. Frank van der Meulen is an Associate Professor of Integrated Coastal Zone Management (ICZM) at UNESCO-IHE Institute for Water Education and a senior advisor at Deltares. He has over 30 years of experience in coastal lowland research, policy, and management, specializing in coastal ecosystems, climate change adaptation, and water management. Retired since 2013, he now runs Frank van der Meulen Consultancy, focusing on coastal environment management, research, and training.

Education Background:

He holds a PhD in ecology and has extensive academic experience, including roles at the University of Amsterdam and the Dutch Ministry of Transport, Public Works and Water Management. His work bridges academic research and practical policy, particularly in landscape ecology and coastal zone management.

Research Interests:

Dr. van der Meulen’s expertise spans integrated coastal management, vulnerability assessment, ecosystem restoration, and climate change impacts. He emphasizes multidisciplinary approaches, combining physical geography, remote sensing, and policy analysis to address coastal challenges. His work often focuses on deltas, dunes, estuaries, and wetlands, integrating management strategies for low-lying coastal regions.

Professional Contributions:

He authored over 200 scientific publications and technical reports, edited special journal issues (e.g., Journal of Coastal Conservation), and serves on editorial and advisory boards. His consultancy firm continues to advise governments and institutions on coastal adaptation and sustainable management.

Labs/Teams:

He leads his consultancy firm, offering tailored solutions for coastal environment and management challenges, alongside collaborating with academic and governmental partners globally.