C. G. (Corné) Kocks, PhD, MSc

Position: Professor, Business Developer
Professorship: Smart Farming
Email: c.kocks@aeres.nl
Telephone number: +31 88 020 5849 (for appointments: +31 88 020 5353) / +31 62 27 70 458
Social media: LinkedIn

Corné Kocks is Professor of Applied Sciences in Smart Farming and fulfils this role with strong commitment and vision. In close collaboration with industry partners, research institutes and policy organisations, he works on innovative solutions for the agriculture of the future, together with fellow professor Corné Kempenaar.

Kocks brings a unique combination of practical experience and scientific depth. Having grown up on a mixed arable and contracting farm, he developed a strong affinity with the agricultural sector at an early age. After completing his education at the Rijks Hogere Landbouwschool in Groningen, he continued his studies at Wageningen University & Research (WUR), where he specialised in Plant Pathology and Theoretical Production Ecology. He obtained his doctorate in spatial statistics—an area of expertise that is indispensable in the field of smart farming today.

Since 2014, Kocks has been a driving force behind numerous innovations in precision agriculture. His work focuses on themes such as digitalisation, emission reduction, robotics and sustainable energy, always aiming to contribute to future-proof and economically viable agriculture.

In addition to his professorship, Kocks is a business developer at Aeres University of Applied Sciences. He also holds several governance roles, including chair of the Economic Plan Dronten (Agriculture) and member of the Committee on Animal Manure. The Sprong ELEMENT programme is also part of his research group.

With his broad expertise, connecting ability and forward-looking approach, Corné Kocks is an inspiring pioneer in the field of smart and sustainable agriculture.