Andreas Spornberger

Andreas Spornberger is an Assistant Professor at the Institute of Viticulture and Fruit Growing, Department of Crop Science, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna (BOKU). He heads the Working Group on Sustainable Fruit and Viticulture and has been active in academic and applied research since 1996. His work spans organic fruit production, breeding, rootstock evaluation, and climate adaptation in horticulture.

• PhD in Technical Natural Sciences
• Diploma in Agricultural Sciences, BOKU Vienna

His research interests focus on organic and sustainable fruit production, including the development of robust cultivars, genetic conservation of regional fruit varieties, pollination biology, rootstock performance, and climate change adaptation in orchards. He emphasizes agroecological approaches, biodiversity, and the preservation of traditional and high-altitude fruit systems.

The recent publications highlight a strong trend in climate-resilient fruit growing, organic breeding (especially peaches and apples), rootstock trials (e.g., Geneva series), pollination compatibility, and phytochemical analysis of fruit. His work bridges fundamental plant science with practical applications for organic farmers and conservationists.

No scientific awards are listed in the provided text.

He actively supervises student theses and leads multiple research projects, often in collaboration with national and international partners. His outreach includes advising organic farming associations, public lectures, and participation in media to promote sustainable fruit cultivation.

Andreas Spornberger is involved in long-term field trials, germplasm conservation initiatives, and interdisciplinary projects related to agroforestry and community gardening. His team conducts molecular, physiological, and agronomic studies to improve the sustainability and resilience of fruit systems in Austria and beyond.