Institute of Forest Ecology

We investigate ecological patterns and processes in forest ecosystems and communicate these findings to students, stakeholders, and the general public. One focus is on investigating the effects of climate change, natural disturbances, and management practices on forest ecosystems and their biodiversity.

Our work ranges across different scales, from individual organisms to the forest stand and the landscape. We focus on linking processes along the soil-plant-atmosphere continuum with the function of forest ecosystems and the dynamics of tree populations and their communities. Our strength lies in empirical research using observations and experiments in the field and in the laboratory.

Our work makes an important contribution to the conservation of healthy and resilient forests, contributing to a sustainable social transformation.

Students are trained in:

- Understanding natural forest dynamics

- Assessing forest sites as a basis for production

- Sustainable forest use (soil management, diversity, resilience...)

We conduct research on:

- Forest soils and site ecology

- Biogeochemistry, soil biology, and forest nutrition

- Forest climatology and forest hydrology

- Forest ecosystem dynamics, biodiversity

- Ecosystem services

Our 3^rd Mission Commitment:

- Implementation of the sustainable development goals

- International Cooperation in Development

- Science Communication for practitioners, politicians, and the public

Management and Administration

Addresses & Contact