Dr. Fred Beekman obtained his master's degree in geophysics from Utrecht University and his doctorate from VU University Amsterdam (VUA) with a thesis on numerical modeling of compressive intraplate deformation. After postdoctoral research at IFPen in France, he joined the VUA Tectonics Group in 1996, first as a postdoctoral researcher and later as a senior lecturer. Since 2012, he has been an assistant professor in the Tectonics Group of Utrecht University (UU).

Fred's expertise and research interests include the thermo-tectonic evolution of sedimentary basin systems, mantle plume-lithosphere interaction, geothermal energy resources, and the development of coupled analog-numerical modeling methods. His current research focuses on the exploration and quantification of the geothermal energy potential of sedimentary basins. He played a key role in establishing research and laboratory facilities for tectonic deformation modeling at VU Amsterdam and UU.

Fred has been involved in various international research projects as a principal investigator and researcher, has (co-)authored over 50 peer-reviewed publications, and has (co-)supervised 14 PhD theses and approximately 100 master's and bachelor's theses. He is a professional member of the AGU, EAGE, AAPG, and KNGMG, and is an associate editor of the Netherlands Journal of Geosciences.