Richard Zink

Richard Zink is a Research Fellow and Manager of the Centre for Education and Public Relations at the Austrian Ornithological Centre (AOC) within the Konrad-Lorenz Institute of Ethology at the University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna. He has been in this position since May 2018, following his role as Senior Postdoctoral Researcher and team leader for Wildlife Management and Conservation.

He earned his PhD in Zoology from the University of Vienna (2000-2005) with a dissertation on modeling food availability for Bearded vultures in the Austrian Alps, and completed his Diploma in Biology with a major in Ecology at the same institution (1997-1999).

Zink's research spans multiple areas of ecology and conservation biology, with a particular focus on ornithology. His work emphasizes restoration ecology, species monitoring, and conservation projects, particularly involving birds of prey. He has developed significant expertise in Citizen Science approaches, recognizing their value for both data collection and public engagement in conservation efforts. His research integrates field studies with community participation, creating bridges between scientific research and public understanding of wildlife conservation.

His publication record demonstrates consistent contributions to conservation science, with recent work focusing on urban wildlife, raptor conservation (particularly Saker Falcons and Ural Owls), and the application of new technologies in ecological research. His research shows a clear trajectory toward more integrated approaches that combine traditional ecological methods with community-based monitoring and cross-sectoral wildlife management.

• Manager Centre for Education and Public Relations in Seebarn – Austrian Ornithological Centre (2018-present)
• Senior Postdoctoral Researcher and team leader for Wildlife Management and Conservation (2012-2018)
• Postdoctoral Researcher at the Research Institute of Wildlife Ecology (2004-2012)

Zink leads several important conservation initiatives including the re-introduction of Ural owls to Austria, Saker falcon monitoring in Eastern Austria, little owl research, and the Citizen Science projects 'Wild neighbours' and 'StadtWildTiere' focused on urban wildlife. His work bridges scientific research with public education and community engagement, creating sustainable conservation programs with lasting impact.