Hein Thomas

Prof. Hein Thomas is a University Professor at BOKU – University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences Vienna, specializing in Hydrobiology and Water Management. His work focuses on river connectivity, ecosystem services, and aquatic conservation, particularly in the Danube and Nile River Basins. He holds teaching authorizations in Hydrobiology, Limnology, and Water Management.

Research interests include river fragmentation impacts, fish ecology, sediment dynamics, and wetland biogeochemistry. He leads projects like DANSER (Danube sediment restoration) and integrates eDNA metabarcoding for biodiversity assessments. Recent studies address climate change effects on fish populations and hydropower dam impacts in transboundary systems.

Publications highlight interdisciplinary approaches to river-floodplain interactions, nitrate removal mechanisms, and socio-ecohydrological systems. His work bridges ecological theory with practical restoration strategies, emphasizing the Danube’s ecological history and future resilience.

Prof. Thomas collaborates internationally, including with the International Association for Danube Research (IAD). He advocates for integrated river management frameworks and innovative solutions for free-flowing river restoration under the EU’s Nature Restoration Law.