Kim André Vanselow

Dr. Kim André Vanselow is a Privatdozent (equivalent to Associate Professor) and currently serves as Scientific Staff Member and Head of Office at the Institute of Geography, Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg. His academic career has been deeply rooted at FAU, where he completed his PhD in 2011 and Habilitation in 2022. He has also held part-time positions at the University of Salzburg and teaching assignments at Freie Universität Berlin and University of Vienna.

Dr. Vanselow's research focuses on biogeography, geoecology, and human-environment relationships, with particular expertise in pasture ecology in arid and high mountain regions. His work extensively covers the Pamir Mountains in Central Asia, investigating vegetation dynamics, land cover change, and sustainable pasture management using remote sensing and statistical modeling approaches. His research spans multiple continents, with field work conducted in Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, Southern Morocco, Honduras, and Ecuador.

• Current Position: Scientific Staff Member and Head of Office, Institute of Geography, FAU (since April 2024)
• Habilitation: Completed June 2022, venia legendi granted March 2023
• PhD: 2011, FAU Erlangen-Nuremberg
• Research Funding: DFG, Volkswagen Foundation, Schmauser Foundation

Dr. Vanselow's recent publications demonstrate a consistent interdisciplinary approach that bridges physical geography, ecology, and social sciences to address pressing environmental challenges. His work on land cover change in mountain regions, soil science in arid environments, and biodiversity assessment shows methodological innovation and regional expertise. His research has significant implications for sustainable resource management in vulnerable ecosystems facing climate change.

• Over 30 peer-reviewed publications since 2007
• Regular presentations at international conferences
• Active member of International Biogeography Society and European Geosciences Union

As an educator, Dr. Vanselow teaches courses in physical geography, including regional lectures, seminars on biogeography, and field methods. His administrative role in the Department for Teaching and Studies (2017-2024) demonstrates his commitment to academic leadership and curriculum development. His research program continues to expand, with growing emphasis on interdisciplinary approaches that integrate ecological, social, and cultural dimensions of sustainability in mountain regions worldwide.