Dr. Roy Erkens

Biography

Roy Erkens is an evolutionary plant biologist affiliated with the Department of System Earth Science at Maastricht University. With 25 years of experience in university education and research policy, he has focused on the development, (re)accreditation, and delivery of Bachelor’s and Master’s programs. He has developed and taught courses covering topics in evolutionary biology, botany, tropical biology, and philosophy of science, alongside field skills and landscape evolution. Currently, Erkens serves as the programme director for the Bachelor in Sustainable Bioscience at Maastricht University, where he is responsible for ensuring quality education and curriculum integrity. Additionally, he chairs the Educational Programme Committee of the Maastricht Science Programme and is the vice-chair of the Board of Examiners for the Maastricht School of Liberal Arts and Sciences. His research primarily investigates patterns of plant biodiversity in the Neotropics and Europe, with a focus on understanding the evolution and distribution of biodiversity from both genetic and biological perspectives. His research line is integrated within the new System Earth Science department. He has ample experience in curriculum design and educational policy and has acted as a teacher trainer as part of the University Teaching Qualification program.

Research Interests

Experience