Michael Hupfer

Prof. Dr. Michael Hupfer is a Research Group Leader and Professor in the Department of Ecohydrology and Biogeochemistry at the Leibniz Institute of Freshwater Ecology and Inland Fisheries (IGB) in Berlin. Since 2022, he has held the position of Honorary Professor of Aquatic Biogeochemistry at BTU Cottbus-Senftenberg. Previously, he served as Head (a.i.) of the Department Chemical Analytics and Biogeochemistry at IGB from 2018 to 2021. With a career spanning over three decades in aquatic research, Hupfer is a recognized expert in lake biogeochemistry and management.

Education:

• PhD (Dr. rer. nat.) in Hydrobiology/Limnology from TU Dresden (1988-1993)
• Diploma in Hydrobiology/Limnology from TU Dresden (1985-1988)
• Studies in Marine Ecology at University Rostock (1983-1985)

Michael Hupfer's research focuses on redox controlled matter transport across boundaries, lake internal nutrient cycles, lake management, and the impact of climate and land use changes on lakes. His work particularly emphasizes phosphorus cycling in freshwater systems, sediment biogeochemistry, and the development of lake restoration techniques. Hupfer has made significant contributions to understanding iron-phosphorus interactions in sediments, polyphosphate dynamics, and the long-term effectiveness of lake management strategies. His research bridges fundamental biogeochemical processes with practical applications for sustainable water resource management.

Hupfer's recent publication record demonstrates a strong focus on contemporary challenges in limnology, particularly the intersection of nutrient cycling, climate change impacts, and innovative restoration approaches. His work shows increasing attention to the effects of mining activities on freshwater systems, the role of iron in phosphorus dynamics, and the development of advanced analytical methods for assessing sediment processes. The interdisciplinary nature of his research is evident in collaborations spanning microbial ecology, remote sensing, and climate modeling.

Hupfer serves as Editor-in-chief of Limnologica and the Handbuch Angewandte Limnologie, and is a member of the executive committee of the German Limnological Society. His leadership in these roles has helped shape the direction of limnological research in Germany and internationally.

Throughout his career, Hupfer has led and participated in numerous research projects addressing critical issues in freshwater ecology. His work on lake restoration techniques, particularly concerning phosphorus management, has provided valuable insights for practitioners and policymakers. Hupfer's research group at IGB focuses on biogeochemical processes in sediments and their implications for lake management, contributing significantly to the scientific foundation for sustainable freshwater ecosystem management.