Roel Lutkenhaus

Roel Lutkenhaus is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Communication Science at the University of Twente, within the Faculty of Behavioural, Management and Social Sciences. His research focuses on digital media, health communication, and social network dynamics, particularly on platforms like YouTube and Twitter.

His research interests include social media influence, behavioral change, entertainment-education, and digital inclusion. He applies methods such as social network analysis and text analytics to study public discourse and engagement with health and societal issues in online communities.

The most recent publications indicate a strong trend in analyzing how digital platforms shape public norms and facilitate health communication, especially among adolescents and young adults. His work often bridges theory and practice, contributing to both academic knowledge and public policy insights.

• Discourses on smoke-free policies using social network analysis on Dutch Twitter
• Strategies for shifting health-related social norms via social media
• Role of content creators in promoting health topics in online communities
• Using narrative markers to track engagement in transmedia edutainment

While no specific scientific awards are listed, his publications in high-impact journals and media contributions reflect recognition in the field. His work is often collaborative, suggesting active participation in research teams and potential supervision of junior researchers or students, though no formal advisees are named.

He has contributed to public discourse through media appearances, including expert commentary on populism on YouTube and sportswashing related to the Qatar World Cup. These engagements highlight his role as a public scholar translating academic findings for broader audiences.

His research is conducted within interdisciplinary teams at the University of Twente, focusing on digital society challenges. Projects often involve partnerships across departments or institutions, particularly in areas of digital health, education, and social change.