Nikki Sterkenburg appointed professor of investigative journalism at VU

VU Amsterdam has appointed journalist and author Nikki Sterkenburg as professor of investigative journalism

After working for more than 25 years as an investigative journalist for various media, she will start as a professor on 1 September 2023

Sterkenburg has a long track record of investigative journalism. She worked, among other things, for Vrij Nederland, de Volkskrant, and the NOS and was the founder and editor-in-chief of the platform De Onderzoeksredactie.

In 2012, she received the Anne Vondeling Prize for investigative journalism for her work on whistleblower cases. In recent years, Sterkenburg has also been involved in teaching investigative journalism, among other things at the University of Amsterdam and Fontys. She has also supervised many graduation students.

As a professor at VU Amsterdam, Sterkenburg will focus on the importance of investigative journalism for society. She will study the impact of investigative journalism on decision-making processes, law enforcement, and corporate behavior.

Sterkenburg is looking forward to her new role at the VU: "Investigative journalism is essential for a well-functioning democracy. I want to contribute to the development of this type of journalism and train future generations of investigative journalists."

The appointment of Sterkenburg is part of the VU's ambition to strengthen investigative journalism in the Netherlands. The university wants to play a leading role in the further development of this type of journalism.