R. (Rob) Middag

Prof. Rob Middag is a Professor of Marine Trace Metal Biogeochemistry at the University of Groningen’s Faculty of Science and Engineering, with a secondary role as Senior Scientist at the Royal NIOZ. His research focuses on trace metals’ dual role as essential nutrients and potential toxins in marine ecosystems, particularly their impacts on organism health and ecosystem dynamics. He leads studies in global oceans, including the Southern Ocean, Arctic, and Antarctic regions, often through large-scale projects like GEOTRACES.

Key research themes include trace metal biogeochemical cycles (e.g., iron, nickel, cadmium), interactions between physical oceanography and biogeochemistry, and anthropogenic influences on marine systems. Middag has authored over 58 peer-reviewed publications, with recent work examining Southern Ocean phytoplankton responses to iron and temperature, Arctic trace metal distributions, and GEOTRACES-driven iron source investigations.

His work has been highlighted in media, including discussions on icebreaker importance for polar research and the critical role of trace metals in ocean life. Collaborations span institutions globally, with projects addressing climate change impacts on marine biogeochemistry. Middag’s lab at the Isotope Research group contributes to advancing understanding of elemental cycling in a changing world.