Indian oil and gas heir made professor of sustainability at Newcastle University

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Published: 2026-09-24T10:44:07.463Z • Permanent link

Newcastle University is facing intense backlash over its appointment of Anant Ambani, the 25-year-old son of India's richest person, Mukesh Ambani, as a professor of sustainability. Ambani, who is also the heir to the Dhirubhai Ambani Group's oil and gas empire, has been at the center of controversy over his family's business practices and the treatment of animals at their mega-zoo, Wild Adventures. Critics argue that Ambani's appointment is a conflict of interest, given his family's history of environmental degradation and animal welfare concerns.

Ambani's appointment was announced in September, sparking outrage among conservationists and animal welfare groups. The University of Newcastle has defended the appointment, citing Ambani's academic credentials and his commitment to sustainability. However, many are questioning the university's judgment, given Ambani's lack of direct experience in sustainability and his family's business interests. The university has also been accused of failing to disclose Ambani's financial ties to the Ambani Group.

The controversy has sparked a wider debate about the role of wealthy individuals in academia and the ethics of industry-facilitated research. Ambani's appointment has also raised questions about the university's ability to maintain academic integrity and its commitment to social responsibility.

The appointment of Anant Ambani as a professor of sustainability has significant implications for the research community and the environment. The Dhirubhai Ambani Group is one of the largest oil and gas companies in India, with a history of environmental degradation and pollution. Ambani's involvement in the group's activities has raised concerns about his ability to prioritize sustainability and environmental protection. The university's decision to appoint him as a professor of sustainability has sparked fears that the institution may be compromised by industry interests.

The university's decision has also raised concerns about the impact on research communities and markets. The appointment of a professor with ties to the oil and gas industry has sparked fears that the university may be seen as pro-industry, rather than committed to academic integrity. This could undermine the credibility of the university and its research programs, particularly in the fields of sustainability and environmental science.

The appointment of Anant Ambani as a professor of sustainability is part of a broader pattern of industry-facilitated research and academic partnerships. In recent years, there has been a growing trend towards collaboration between industry and academia, with many universities partnering with companies to fund research and develop new technologies. However, this trend has also raised concerns about the potential for industry influence on academic research and the compromise of academic integrity.