Mathias Jungwirth

Mathias Jungwirth is a Full Professor at the Institute of Hydrobiology and Aquatic Ecosystem Management, Department of Ecosystem Management, Climate and Biodiversity, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna (BOKU). His research centers on aquatic ecology, river ecosystem management, and the impacts of hydropower on fish populations.

His research interests include:

• Aquatic and riverine ecosystem dynamics
• Fish population and community ecology
• Effects of hydropeaking and hydropower development
• River restoration and rehabilitation
• Historical ecology and long-term morphological changes in rivers, especially the Danube
• Implementation of the EU Water Framework Directive

The trends in his recent publications reflect a strong focus on sustainable hydropower, fish conservation, river restoration, and the use of historical data to inform modern management. His work integrates field studies, meta-analyses, and interdisciplinary approaches to assess ecological impacts and guide policy.

His scientific awards include:

• Angelobung als Rat der Sachverständigen für Umweltfragen (2008)
• Goldenes Ehrenzeichen des Niederösterreichischen Landesfischereiverbandes (2006)
• Ehrenmitglied der Österreichischen Fischereigesellschaft (2006)
• Theodor Körner-Preis (1973)

Jungwirth has led or participated in over 65 research projects, many funded by the Austrian Science Fund, EU programs, and national agencies. His grants have supported long-term monitoring of fish populations, assessments of hydropower impacts, and LIFE Nature projects on river restoration. He has supervised numerous theses and contributed extensively to knowledge transfer through expert reports, policy advice, and public lectures.

He is a key member of the research team at the Institute of Hydrobiology and Aquatic Ecosystem Management, collaborating closely with colleagues such as Stefan Schmutz, Susanne Muhar, and Severin Hohensinner on interdisciplinary projects related to river ecology, conservation, and sustainable development.