Thomas M. Weiger

Associate Professor Dr. Mag. Thomas M. Weiger is affiliated with the Department of Biosciences at the University of Salzburg's Faculty of Natural and Life Sciences. He has been an active member of the university community since at least 2002, contributing significantly to neuroscience research and public outreach initiatives.

Dr. Weiger's research primarily focuses on the cellular actions of ethanol, acetaldehyde, and acetate on maxi calcium-activated potassium channels (BK channels). His work examines how BK ion channels function as molecular integrators of electrical events at the plasma membrane and intracellular messenger systems. These channels play essential roles in controlling cellular electrical activity, hormone secretion, and vasoregulation. His laboratory employs cell culture and electrophysiological techniques including voltage clamp and patch clamp for measuring whole cell and single channel currents.

Since 2002, Dr. Weiger has organized and coordinated the annual Brain Awareness Week in Salzburg in cooperation with the House of Nature and Paracelsus Medical University. This international event aims to educate the public about brain function, neurological diseases, and advances in neuroscience research. In 2015, he initiated shared book reading weeks at Kindergarten Oberalm to highlight the benefits of daily reading for children.

Dr. Weiger also serves as the coordinator of the university's PLUS Green Campus sustainability program since 2011 and represents the University of Salzburg in the Alliance of Sustainable Universities in Austria. His additional research interests include chronobiology and science communication to the general public.