The Institute of Soil Research addresses the soil system in a comprehensive manner, focusing on soil use and soil protection, particularly as an interface between multiple ecosystem compartments.

The institute’s research priorities include
soil formation and soil functions,
biodiversity and functioning of microbial communities in soils,
climate change impacts and greenhouse gas emissions,
the behaviour of nutrients and contaminants, as well as
the role of rhizosphere processes and soil–plant–microorganism interactions.

A common overarching goal of our work is the promotion and preservation of soil health and its diverse ecosystem services.

 

Methodological and Infrastructural Expertise

The institute serves as an important point of reference for soil characterisation according to international standards and stands for interdisciplinary research and the development of innovative methodologies.

The institute has particular expertise in
stable isotope techniques,
molecular modelling,
greenhouse gas monitoring,
root exudate research,
chemical imaging, and
experimental field research.

In addition, the institute hosts and utilises one of Austria’s largest collections of soil profile displays as well as an outdoor soil classroom, supporting teaching activities and the communication of soil knowledge.

 

Cooperation, Knowledge Transfer and Societal Impact

The Institute of Soil Research engages in participatory collaboration with practitioners, public authorities and NGOs at both national and European levels to jointly develop and implement knowledge-based sustainable solutions.

Through its scientific expertise, the institute supports measures for ecosystem restoration, the conservation and restoration of soil health, including soil monitoring, and actively contributes to raising awareness of soils and their importance.