Astrid Schmidt-Kloiber

Astrid Schmidt-Kloiber is a researcher at the Institute of Hydrobiology and Aquatic Ecosystem Management, Department of Ecosystem Management, Climate and Biodiversity, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna (BOKU). She holds a Dipl.-Ing. and Dr. degree and is actively engaged in freshwater biodiversity, data management, and ecological assessment research. Her work spans EU-funded projects, national initiatives, and international collaborations focused on biomonitoring, data publication, and science communication.

Research Interests:
Astrid Schmidt-Kloiber's research centers on freshwater biodiversity, benthic macroinvertebrates, ecological assessment, and data management. She is deeply involved in developing online platforms such as the Freshwater Information Platform and MERLIN Academy, promoting open data, trait-based ecology, and science communication. Her expertise includes statistical analysis, web design, and freshwater typology, supporting effective monitoring and policy development.

Publication Trends:
Her recent publications emphasize large-scale ecological trends in European rivers, data harmonization across trait databases, and the impacts of human activities like navigation and hydropower on freshwater ecosystems. She contributes to global biodiversity assessments and advocates for robust data infrastructures to support conservation and restoration efforts.

Scientific Contributions:

• Lead and co-lead of multiple EU- and nationally funded research projects (e.g., FWF, European Commission, Austrian Federal Ministries).
• Key contributor to the development of the Freshwater Information Platform and data-sharing infrastructures.
• Active participant in international networks such as FreshwaterBON and GEO BON.
• Author of influential reports and policy briefs, including inputs to the Post-2020 Global Biodiversity Framework.

Advising and Grants:
While no direct student advisement is listed, she leads major research grants and coordinates large interdisciplinary teams. Her projects often involve collaboration with institutions across Europe and Africa, focusing on capacity building, data mobilization, and ecosystem restoration. She plays a central role in knowledge transfer to society through reports, workshops, and media engagement.

Labs and Teams:
She is a core member of the Institute of Hydrobiology and Aquatic Ecosystem Management at BOKU and leads or contributes to several research consortia, including MERLIN, AQUACROSS, and FreshwaterBON. Her work fosters integration between ecological research, data science, and policy implementation in freshwater systems.