Björn Klaes

Dr. Björn Klaes serves as a Research Associate in the Department of Geology within Trier University's Faculty of Spatial and Environmental Sciences. His academic position is complemented by an external lecturing role at the University of Luxembourg (2021-2025). His institutional affiliations reflect a strong focus on interdisciplinary earth sciences research with international fieldwork components.

Dr. Klaes' research spans Quaternary geology, soil science, and biogeochemistry with particular emphasis on extreme environments. His work investigates rock weathering processes in Patagonian fjord ecosystems, examining how climate fluctuations and volcanic activity influence nutrient cycling and soil formation. Additional research focuses on paleoclimate reconstruction using speleothems and lake sediments in South America and Mongolia, with specialized expertise in iron cycling in volcanic soils and nutrient export dynamics.

His publication record demonstrates consistent output in high-impact journals including Scientific Reports, Communications Earth & Environment, and European Journal of Soil Science. Recent work shows increasing focus on applied environmental problems including sustainable forestry practices and ecological cement development, while maintaining strong theoretical contributions to understanding biogeochemical processes in extreme climates.

As a member of the Thiele-Bruhn Lab, Dr. Klaes contributes to research on soil biogeochemistry and environmental change. His fieldwork spans the southernmost Patagonian Andes (53°S), South Africa's southern Cape region, and Central Mongolia, reflecting a global perspective on climate-environment interactions. Current projects include investigating iron mobilization in volcanic ash soils and developing soil protection strategies for sustainable forestry operations.