Paul van den Brink

Paul van den Brink is a WIMEK Personal Professor in Aquatic Ecology and Water Quality Management at Wageningen University & Research. His research focuses on chemical pollution impacts, ecotoxicology, and environmental risk assessment, particularly in aquatic ecosystems. He has supervised over 20 PhD candidates and contributed to 466 publications, emphasizing pesticide effects, climate change interactions, and multi-trophic community dynamics.

Key research areas include the effects of pharmaceuticals, pesticides (e.g., imidacloprid), and heatwaves on freshwater ecosystems. His work integrates experimental, modeling, and mesocosm approaches to assess ecological stability and recovery. Collaborations span global institutions, addressing challenges in biomonitoring and regulatory frameworks.

Recent projects include evaluating antibiotic-induced trophic cascades and developing predictive models (e.g., DEB-GUTS) for chemical toxicity under varying temperatures. Media engagements highlight his expertise on water quality crises, microplastics, and emerging contaminants.

• Advises on 38 active projects, including transdisciplinary risk assessments in the Philippines and climate change impacts.
• Led workshops on semi-field pesticide risk assessment and ecotoxicological testing strategies.

Labs/Teams: Active in the Aquatic Ecology and Water Quality Management group, collaborating with global networks like ECORISK2050. Involved in data-driven initiatives to enhance environmental decision-making.