Prof. Dr. René H.F.P. Bekkers is Professor of Philanthropy within the discipline of sociology at VU University Amsterdam. He studied sociology and philosophy in Nijmegen and obtained his PhD in sociology from Utrecht University in 2004. His research into prosocial behaviour takes a multidisciplinary approach to philanthropy, volunteering, donation and helping behaviour.

Bekkers is an internationally renowned expert in the sociology and psychology behind altruism and survey design. He has published on these topics in various international scientific journals in different disciplines within the social sciences. His current research focuses on the outcomes and consequences of charity and volunteering.