Professor Robert Van de Noort CBE DL
Robert is an archaeologist by background and is best known for his research into the archaeology of marine, intertidal and terrestrial wetlands, and into the impact of climate change on people and the environment in the past.
He was appointed as the tenth Vice-Chancellor of the University of Reading in 2019. Robert has general responsibility to the University governing body – the Council – for maintaining and promoting the effectiveness, efficiency and good order of the University, and is the accountable officer for the University’s regulator, the Office for Students.
Between 2017 and 2024, Robert was the chair of the Thames Regional Flood and Coastal Committee, which helps to provide governance for the Environment Agency Flood and Coastal Erosion risk management functions and cover all flood risks that are not the responsibility of the water companies.
Robert is a Patron of Launchpad Reading, the charity that works to end homelessness across Reading, and which was founded by students of the University of Reading.
Robert was appointed Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in the 2024 New Year Honours, for contributions to science, to flood risk management, and to sustainability.