Günther Nausch

Günther Nausch is a Senior Scientist at the Leibniz Institute for Baltic Sea Research (IOW) in Rostock, Germany, within the Marine Chemistry Department. He holds a Dr.rer.nat. (Ph.D.) from Rostock University, where he studied Marine Biology and conducted research on sediment nutrient cycles in the Baltic Sea. His career includes roles as a scientific assistant at Rostock University (1976–1991) and Associate Professor at Asmara University (now Eritrea) in the late 1980s. He has been with the IOW since 1992, focusing on marine chemistry and nutrient dynamics.

Research Interests: Nausch specializes in nutrient cycles, particularly phosphorus and cyanobacteria interactions, and chemical monitoring of the Baltic Sea. He examines long-term data series, eutrophication processes, and the impact of environmental changes on marine ecosystems. His work addresses phosphorus sources for cyanobacterial blooms, dissolved organic phosphorus (DOP), and effects of ocean acidification on nutrient cycling.

Key Contributions: He has authored/co-authored over 180 publications, including studies on Baltic Sea hydrochemistry, eutrophication assessments, and upwelling dynamics. He is a member of key organizations like HELCOM, ICES Baltic Committee, and the German Marine Research Commission (DWM). His research integrates interdisciplinary approaches, linking biogeochemical processes with ecosystem health and policy.

Grants & Collaborations: Nausch has led or participated in projects funded by the Leibniz Association and the German Research Foundation, focusing on phosphorus transformation, cyanobacteria regulation, and Baltic Sea restoration. His team collaborates internationally on topics like Benguela upwelling systems and Baltic-North Sea water exchange.

Labs/Teams: He contributes to the IOW’s Marine Chemistry and Microbial Processes groups, advancing analytical methods for nutrient analysis and ecosystem modeling.