Hannes Feilhauer

Hannes Feilhauer is a full professor at Leipzig University since 2020, where he heads the Remote Sensing in Geo- and Ecosystem Research group. He maintains dual affiliation with the Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research (UFZ) in Leipzig, Germany. His previous academic positions include visiting professor at the Free University of Berlin (2018) and senior scientist at the Institute of Geography, Friedrich-Alexander Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (2010).

His educational background comprises a PhD in Geography from Bonn University (2009) and a Diploma in Geoecology from Bayreuth University (2006).

Professor Feilhauer's research centers on spatio-temporal patterns of species distributions and functional properties in terrestrial ecosystems. He pioneers methodologies combining high-resolution remote sensing data with in-situ observations for data-driven ecological analysis. His signature contribution involves mapping fuzzy ecosystem characteristics that defy conventional crisp mapping approaches, requiring innovative methodological development. This work bridges remote sensing technology with fundamental ecological questions about biodiversity patterns and ecosystem functioning.

Analysis of his publication record reveals a consistent focus on advancing vegetation mapping techniques beyond traditional categorical approaches. His work increasingly emphasizes continuous gradient mapping, fuzzy classification, and trait-based remote sensing to capture ecological complexity. Key methodological innovations include brightness-normalized PLSR, ensemble spectral band selection, and integration of ordination techniques with imaging spectroscopy.

• Science award for Physical Geography of the Prof. Dr. Frithjof Voss Stiftung für Geographie

Professor Feilhauer maintains active collaborations with researchers across European institutions, particularly with Daniel Doktor (UFZ), Sebastian Schmidtlein, and Angela Lausch. His research has significant applications in biodiversity conservation, habitat monitoring under Natura 2000, and understanding climate change impacts on ecosystems. His leadership of the Remote Sensing in Geo- and Ecosystem Research group drives methodological innovation while addressing pressing environmental challenges through advanced remote sensing approaches.

The research group operates at the intersection of remote sensing technology and ecological theory, developing tools that capture ecological complexity more faithfully than conventional approaches. Their work demonstrates how continuous representation of ecological gradients provides superior insights compared to traditional discrete classification methods, particularly for conservation applications where transitional zones and subtle compositional changes carry significant ecological meaning.