https://studiegids.vu.nl/en/courses/2025-2026/AM_1280The Frontiers in Hydrology course is designed to explore the critical role that water plays in the Earth system, and to delve into the scientific and natural frontiers where new discoveries are being made. Through this course, we will examine a wide range of topics that cross the boundaries of climate regions, spatial scales, and Earth system components. Specifically, we will provide an overview of the current state of scientific research in the field, including a review of literature, and a discussion of the publication process. In lectures and practical exercises we will immerse ourselves in the latest hydrologic research being conducted at the VU and at the forefront of hydrologic science, in order to gain a deeper understanding of this exciting and rapidly evolving field. In addition, we will learn how to plan and design our own small research project. By the end of this course, the participants should be equipped with the knowledge, skills, and resources needed to write short research proposals in the field of hydrology.Frontiers in Hydrology delves into the complex interactions between water and other components of the Earth system. In this course, we aim to understand how water connects different parts of the Earth, including the atmosphere, pedosphere, biosphere, and cryosphere. Our exploration of hydrology is thereby not limited to physical processes; we also examine how water interacts with vegetation, and how it affects nutrient and carbon cycles. Our investigations cover a range of scales, from local to regional, and we strive to push the boundaries of our understanding of hydrology by studying the interactions that occur across Earth system boundaries. By examining these interactions, we aim to gain a deeper understanding of the role that water plays in our planet's complex and interconnected systems. The course is composed of several elements, including:Literature review presentations by course participants. The presentations will give students the opportunity to share their insights and perspectives on current research in the field of hydrology.A series of lectures and practical exercises that cover the latest research and methods in the field. These lectures and exercises will be reinforced by weekly assignments, which will allow students to apply their knowledge and skills in a practical context.A final assignment, which will require students to develop and formulate their own small research project. This project will be presented to the class and will serve as the basis for a research proposal that students will complete in the form of a written paper.Lectures: 2 times 2 hours per week, Hands on computer/lab/field practice 2 times 2 hours per week. Presence is mandatory. Additional 12 hours per week working on assignments.Proposal writing 40%, Presentations 30%, Assignments 30%All interested students that followed at least 30ECTS of a relevant Master program30ECTS in the Master Hydrology, Earth sciences, or environmental study program