Dr. Niko Wanders

Associate Professor

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Biography

Niko Wanders is an Associate Professor specializing in hydrological extremes and climate change at Utrecht University. His research focuses on the impacts of hydrological extremes such as droughts and floods on society, and how climate change influences these extreme situations. Known as a science communicator, he actively engages in public debates around drought and climate change. Niko collaborates with water managers and decision-makers to explore opportunities for seasonal forecasting and improve impact assessments in both the Netherlands and abroad. He has received multiple awards for his contributions to the field, including the AGU James B. Macelwane Medal in 2025 and the EGU Arne Richter Award for Outstanding Early Career Scientists in 2022. Throughout his career, he has been involved in research activities aimed at understanding the predictability of floods and droughts on various timescales, and he has played a key role in fostering scientific discussions around ongoing drought research.

Research Interests

Awards

#2025

AGU James B. Macelwane Medal

#2025

AGU Fellow

#2023

NWO-VIDI Grant

#2022

ERC-Starting Grant

#2022

EGU Arne Richter Award

#2020

AGU Hydrological Sciences Early Career Award

#2020

KNAW Early Career Award

#2019

UU Publiprice

#2018

NWO-Vening Meinesz Grant

#2017

NWO-VENI Grant

Requirements for Utrecht University

Master Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3
IELTS
Listening
Required:6
Reading
Required:6
Writing
Required:6
Speaking
Required:6
Overall
Required:6.5
TOEFL
Listening
Required:20
Reading
Required:20
Writing
Required:20
Speaking
Required:20
Total
Required:93
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree in Psychology or related field Advanced knowledge of research methods and statistics
Application Checklist
  • Transcript of records
  • Motivation letter
  • Two letters of recommendation
  • Curriculum Vitae
  • Proof of English proficiency
Specialization Notes

Department of Psychology