Introduction Jasper Verschuur: New Team Member Climate Safety & Security Research Center

Welcome to Our New Assistant Professor: Jasper Verschuur

We are thrilled to announce that Jasper Verschuur has joined our team as an Assistant Professor in Engineering Systems & Climate Security. Jasper will be playing a pivotal role within the Climate Safety & Security Research Center, within the Flagship 'Human Security and Liveable Environment.'

“I joined the center as it offers a unique interdisciplinary environment to do research on some of the most pressing challenges that society faces in terms of rapidly decarbonising society, as well anticipating the adverse consequences of climate change. Moreover, the center provides a much-needed bridge to align TU Delft research with the needs of policymakers working on climate safety and security issues.”

Research Focus and Objectives

Jasper’s research addresses the systemic risks that climate change poses to infrastructure systems and the essential services they provide. This work spans both localized levels (e.g., household essential services) and a global scale (e.g., staple food flows). These systemic risks are complex and challenging to quantify due to the interdependencies between human, infrastructure, and economic systems.

His research focuses on developing new modelling tools to better anticipate these risks and propose solutions to enhance resilience. This demands a forward-looking approach which not only tries to understand the various impacts of a changing climate, but also the evolving nature of the systems themselves, for instance due to the energy transition and rapid urbanization. This holistic perspective is crucial for devising effective strategies to mitigate systemic risks.

Impact for a better society

Aligned with TU Delft’s slogan, "Impact for a Better Society," Jasper's research aims to identify and address systemic risks that could lead to societal disruptions or economic losses. He focuses on ensuring that climate change does not exacerbate existing societal inequalities, particularly in the Global South, where these disparities are most pronounced. His work often includes a development angle, striving to assist those most vulnerable to climate risks.

TU Delft’s mission in The Hague

The mission of the TU Delft campus in The Hague is to bridge the gap and facilitate dialogue between engineering, sciences, and public policy. How can the newly established Climate Safety & Security Research Center contribute to this goal?

“I see the research center as the central location to bring different people together and jointly discuss how the research center, and The Hague as a city, can make a difference in dealing with climate change.”

In The Hague, there is a vibrant community of policymakers, think tanks, NGOs, and practitioners dedicated to safety and security issues. Climate change is increasingly recognized as a significant security threat. Jasper’s research is crucial for informing the decisions of those working on these challenges daily. In his near future endeavours, he aims to engage with the community in The Hague, understanding their primary challenges and collaborating to find solutions.

We are excited to have Jasper on board and look forward to the significant contributions he will make to our community and beyond. Welcome, Jasper!