Thomas Hein

Thomas Hein is a Full Professor and Head of the Institute of Hydrobiology and Aquatic Ecosystem Management at the University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna. He holds a PhD in Limnology from the University of Vienna (2000) and an MSc (1993). Since 2010, he has held tenure-track positions culminating in his full professorship in 2017. Hein leads the Christian Doppler Laboratory for Meta Ecosystem Dynamics in Riverine Landscapes and coordinates doctoral studies at BOKU.

His research focuses on river and wetland ecology, aquatic biodiversity, biogeochemical cycling (especially carbon and nutrient dynamics), and socio-ecohydrological systems. Key investigations include floodplain connectivity impacts, greenhouse gas emissions from aquatic systems, and restoration ecology in large river networks like the Danube. Research spans theoretical frameworks and applied conservation strategies.

Hein's publications demonstrate consistent focus on river-floodplain interactions, with recent work emphasizing: (1) Meta-ecosystem dynamics in river networks, (2) Climate change impacts on aquatic biogeochemistry, (3) Advanced eDNA applications in biodiversity assessment, and (4) Nature-based solutions for water quality management. His articles frequently integrate hydrological, ecological and social dimensions.

• Fulbright Foreign Scholarship (2017)
• Wissenschaftspreis des Landes Nö (2007)
• Theodor Koerner Award (2003)

He directs doctoral research through the Christian Doppler Laboratory and DocSchool HR21, focusing on river meta-ecosystems. His institute collaborates internationally on major projects including DANUBIUS-RI and manages field sites across the Danube basin. Current work emphasizes integrating connectivity science into practical river restoration frameworks.