Newcastle University has come under scrutiny following its decision to appoint Anant Ambani, son of Reliance Industries chairman Mukesh Ambani, as a Professor of Practice in sustainability. The appointment has triggered debate among conservationists and academics, who have questioned the choice given Ambani’s association with the oil and gas industry and his involvement in the Vantara wildlife facility in Gujarat.
Newcastle University is a public research university based in Newcastle, England. It has overseas campuses in Singapore and Malaysia.
The university said the role recognises Ambani’s contributions to conservation, biodiversity protection, animal welfare and environmental stewardship. The appointment is linked to his work in developing initiatives focused on wildlife conservation and sustainability.
Anant Ambani, 31, is a member of the executive leadership team at Reliance Industries and oversees the group’s renewable energy initiatives. Reliance has traditionally been built around energy, petrochemicals and refining, including ownership of one of the world’s largest oil refineries.
Ambani founded Vantara, a large-scale animal rescue and conservation centre spread across around 1,400 hectares near Reliance’s refining complex in Jamnagar, Gujarat. The facility houses thousands of animals, including several endangered species, and has been promoted as a centre for wildlife rescue, rehabilitation and veterinary care.
However, some conservation groups have previously raised concerns about the sourcing and transfer of certain animals to the facility. Vantara has not been found guilty of any wrongdoing.
The project has also attracted global attention after featuring during Ambani’s high-profile pre-wedding celebrations in 2024, which were attended by several celebrities and political leaders.
The appointment has drawn criticism from sections of the academic and environmental community. Some researchers argued that universities should carefully evaluate appointments involving corporate figures, particularly in areas such as climate change and sustainability.
Critics pointed to the broader challenge faced by universities in balancing private funding, industry partnerships and academic independence. Some academics expressed concern that corporate influence could shape research priorities and institutional decisions.
Supporters of the appointment have highlighted Ambani’s investments in conservation, renewable energy and animal welfare initiatives, arguing that industry participation can play a role in advancing sustainability goals.
The controversy has also brought attention to the relationship between traditional energy businesses and climate-focused initiatives. Reliance Industries has been expanding investments in renewable energy, including solar energy, green hydrogen and related technologies, while continuing its operations in oil and petrochemicals.
Environmental groups have argued that companies with significant fossil fuel interests must demonstrate stronger climate commitments as global efforts intensify to reduce carbon emissions.
In 2026, Ambani also launched Vantara University, an institution focused on wildlife conservation and veterinary science, aimed at developing expertise in animal care and biodiversity protection.
The Newcastle University appointment has reignited a wider discussion about how universities should assess partnerships and honorary academic roles involving business leaders, especially in fields connected to climate and sustainability.