معرفی
Wilco Hazeleger serves as Rector Magnificus of Utrecht University since 26 March 2025 and professor of Climate System Science. As rector, he oversees research, education, and student affairs at Utrecht University, with a mission to make the institution open and accessible to society through interdisciplinary connections and societal collaboration. Previously, he served as dean of the Faculty of Geosciences from July 1, 2019 to March 1, 2025, where he championed diversity, inclusivity, and sustainability-focused research.
- Current Position: Rector Magnificus of Utrecht University (2025-present)
- Academic Appointment: Professor of Climate System Science
- Previous Leadership: Dean of Faculty of Geosciences (2019-2025)
- Former Roles: Director of Netherlands eScience Center (2014-2019), Professor of Climate Dynamics at Wageningen University
- Education: PhD in Physical Oceanography from Utrecht University (1999)
Hazeleger's research spans climate modeling, oceanography, and the application of data science to climate challenges. He pioneered narrative approaches to climate change based on vulnerability mapping, enabling better understanding of future weather extremes. His work connects climate science with societal applications, particularly through digital twin technology for Earth system modeling.
His research trajectory demonstrates a clear evolution from fundamental climate science toward integrated approaches combining AI, data science, and climate modeling. Recent publications focus on digital twins of Earth, climate risk assessment through event-based storylines, and applications of machine learning to climate prediction. His work on EC-Earth, a climate model based on ECMWF's weather model, has been instrumental in IPCC assessment reports.
- Climate System Science: Focus on interactions within Earth's climate system
- Digital Earth Twins: Development of integrated simulation frameworks
- Climate Risk Assessment: Innovative approaches using narrative/storyline methods
- AI Applications: Machine learning for climate prediction and analysis
Hazeleger is deeply committed to open science principles, advocating for open data, software, and knowledge sharing. He co-founded the AI Lab Sustainability, facilitating collaboration between sustainability researchers, computer scientists, and external stakeholders. His leadership extends to implementing the MERIT promotion policy at the Faculty of Geosciences, which values research, education, leadership, impact, and team spirit equally.
As a key contributor to the European 'Destination Earth' program, Hazeleger bridges fundamental climate research with practical applications for addressing climate change challenges. His interdisciplinary approach connects climate science with social sciences, computer science, and policy development, positioning him at the forefront of next-generation climate research infrastructure.
