The KNMI has appointed Caroline Katsman and Roderik van de Wal as lead researchers in the field of sea level rise as of March 1, 2025. Together with the existing team of scientists, they will guide the research, strengthen the KNMIs integration into national and international research networks, and deepen connections with universities.

Maarten van Aalst, Director of KNMI: “By appointing Katsman and Van de Wal, we strengthen our scientific foundation and continue to lead in research on sea level rise. For a country like the Netherlands, this is vital. This enables us to adequately prepare the Netherlands for the impacts of climate change on our coastline.” 

Prof. Dr. Caroline Katsman is a professor of Oceans & Climate at TU Delft and a scientific figurehead at the Climate Research Initiative Netherlands (KIN). Katsman will specifically focus on research into sea level rise due to changing ocean currents and will enhance the connection with broader societal initiatives in the field of climate and energy transitions led by KIN. 

Caroline Katsman: “This role within the KNMI is a wonderful opportunity to further strengthen the interconnections between ocean research, societal developments, and policy.”  

Prof. Dr. Roderik van de Wal is a professor of Sea Level and Coastal Influence at Utrecht University. Van de Wal will particularly focus on research into processes in the cryosphere, such as the melting of ice sheets, and will enhance the connection with the climate modeling community. 

Roderik van de Wal: “With this step, I hope to strengthen the collaboration between Utrecht University and KNMI, particularly in the area of linking ice sheets and climate models so that we can gain a better understanding of Antarcticas role in future sea level rise.” 

Both renowned scientists will be connected to the KNMIs research group on sea level rise for one day a week.