Professor of Dutch and Academic Communication at Radboud University

I study the Dutch language, phonology, and sociolinguistics. My work bridges theoretical linguistics and public engagement, making linguistic knowledge accessible to both academic and general audiences.

Research & Expertise

My research focuses on the tension between language as a natural system and the way in which humans can give shape to it.

Phonology

Investigating the sound systems of languages, with focus on Dutch and other Germanic languages, and in particular on syllable structure and phonotactics

Language Variation & Dialects

Exploring how Dutch and other (Indo-European) languages varies across regions and communities.

Constructed Languages

Studying planned languages like Esperanto. What do artificial languages reveal about natural language design and human linguistic capabilities?

Language in Poetry

Analyzing how poets use linguistic resources for artistic effect. How do literary language and everyday language interact?

Academic Communication

Helping researchers communicate effectively. How can scholars write clearly and present their work to diverse audiences?

Science Communication

Making linguistics accessible to general audiences through columns, MOOCs, and public engagement. Bridging academic research and public understanding.

Current Roles

• Professor – Chair of Dutch and Academic Communication, Radboud University
• Editor– Journal of Linguistics (Cambridge University Press)
• Editor-in-Chief – Neerlandistiek (Dutch linguistics and literature portal)
• Editor – Taalpost (Weekly newsletter in Dutch)

Public Engagement

I believe linguistic knowledge should be accessible beyond academia. My public work includes:

Miracles of Human Language MOOC

A popular online course introducing linguistics to over 100,000 students worldwide. Available on Coursera, this course explores how human language works and what makes it unique.Enroll in the course →

Weekly Columns

I write regularly about language for Neerlandistiek and Onze Taal, among others, covering everything from dialect variation to language change, poetry, and language policy.Read recent columns →

Popular Books

I’ve written several books making linguistics accessible to Dutch-speaking general audiences, covering topics from dialects to language change to Esperanto.Explore my books →

For Students

I welcome inquiries from prospective BA, MA, and PhD students interested in:

• Phonological theory and analysis
• Dutch language and dialects
• Language variation in European languages
• Language policy and planning
• Constructed languages and language design
• Linguistics pedagogy and teaching methods

Contact: marc.vanoostendorp@ru.nl