Matthias C. Rillig

Matthias C. Rillig is a Professor of Plant Ecology at Freie Universität Berlin (since 2008) and Director of the Berlin-Brandenburg Institute of Advanced Biodiversity Research (BBIB) since 2013. His academic journey includes a Ph.D. from UC Davis/San Diego State University (1993–1997) and postdoctoral research at the Carnegie Institution of Washington (1998–1999). He previously held roles at the University of Montana (1999–2007), advancing from Assistant to Associate Professor.

Research Interests: Rillig's work focuses on soil ecology, mycorrhizal fungi, microplastic impacts, and global environmental change. He investigates how these factors influence biodiversity, ecosystem functions, and agricultural sustainability. His contributions bridge laboratory experiments, field studies, and policy-relevant analyses.

Publications & Awards: With over 500 citations and recognition as a Highly Cited Researcher (Clarivate, 2017–2024), Rillig’s work spans journals like Ecology, Global Change Biology, and Nature. Awards include membership in the German National Academy of Sciences (Leopoldina) and Academia Europaea, alongside an ERC Advanced Grant (2015).

Labs & Networks: Leading the Rillig Lab, his team explores soil-microbe-plant interactions and plastic pollution. Collaborations include global projects on microplastic dynamics and mycorrhizal networks. His lab’s findings inform environmental policies and sustainable practices.