Marija Milanovic

Marija Milanović is a Post-Doctoral Researcher at the Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research (UFZ) in the Department of Community Ecology, part of the 'Ecosystems of the Future' research unit. Her academic journey includes a PhD in Ecology from UFZ (2017–2020), an MSc in Ecology from the University of Poitiers (2014–2016), and a BSc in Biology from the University of Belgrade (2007–2012). She specializes in vegetation ecology, focusing on plant functional traits and their relationships with biodiversity and environmental conditions.

Current research emphasizes functional diversity in urban flora, trait-environment interactions, and invasive species dynamics. She contributes to projects like eLTER (European Long-Term Ecosystem Research) and EuropaBON (Biodiversity Observation Network). Her work bridges theoretical ecology with practical applications in biodiversity conservation and policy.

Key publications explore trait-based approaches to invasion biology, urban plant diversity over centuries, and ecosystem services linked to invasive species. Collaborations include the German Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) and international networks in biodiversity science.

• Education:
  • PhD: 2017–2020, UFZ (Community Ecology)
  • MSc: 2014–2016, University of Poitiers (Ecology)
  • BSc: 2007–2012, University of Belgrade (Biology)

Milanoivic's research aligns with global challenges like urbanization and climate change, aiming to inform sustainable environmental management strategies.