Jan-Christoph Otto

Jan-Christoph Otto is an Associate Professor in the Department of Geography and Geology at the Paris Lodron University of Salzburg, where he conducts research and teaches in the fields of geomorphology, natural hazards, and climate change impacts on high mountain landscapes. His work combines field-based quantitative and qualitative methods with shallow geophysics, GIS, and remote sensing to understand landform dynamics, sediment transport, and societal implications of environmental change.

• Academic Rank: Associate Professor
• Institution: Paris Lodron University of Salzburg
• School: Faculty of Natural Sciences
• Department: Department of Geography and Geology
• Email: Jan-Christoph.Otto@plus.ac.at
• ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4552-3011

Research Interests: His scientific focus lies in the evolution of high mountain landscapes, particularly those influenced by glaciers, permafrost, and climate change. He investigates natural hazards and risks, sediment dynamics in mountain river basins, and the interplay between geomorphological processes and biodiversity. His research spans both the European Alps and the Andes, integrating geoscientific and archaeological perspectives on human-environment interactions.

Recent Research Trends: Analysis of his recent publications reveals a strong emphasis on climate change impacts in alpine regions, including glacier retreat, permafrost degradation, and the formation of hazardous glacial lakes. He also explores wetland and peatland ecosystems using innovative techniques like sedaDNA, and investigates early human occupation in high-altitude environments. His work increasingly adopts transdisciplinary approaches, combining geosciences with ecology and social sciences.

Scientific Activities and Recognition: While no formal awards are listed, Otto is highly active in the scientific community with 88 publications, 17 research projects (many ongoing), and 97 recorded activities including peer review, conference presentations, and public outreach. He frequently contributes to media discussions on climate change and natural hazards.

Teaching and Advising: Otto teaches field and laboratory courses on geomorphological and geological techniques, GIS applications, and lectures on geomorphology, natural hazards, and risks. He supervises student field trips and contributes to academic service through examination committees and editorial activities. Although specific advisees are not listed, his leadership in multiple research projects suggests he mentors junior researchers.

Labs and Research Teams: Otto leads and participates in several collaborative research initiatives such as CLIMB, AlpLake-Change, and AlpsChange. He is involved in maintaining the scientific website www.geomorphology.at, indicating leadership in digital knowledge dissemination. His research integrates interdisciplinary teams across geosciences, biology, and archaeology, particularly in transdisciplinary projects addressing climate change in alpine environments.