Thomas Nauss

Thomas Nauss has served as President of Marburg University since February 2022, with a six-year term ending in February 2028. Concurrently, he holds a professorship in Environmental Informatics at Philipps-Universität Marburg since 2011, and previously held administrative roles including Vice President for Information Management (2019-2022) and Dean of the Department of Geography (2015-2017).

His academic journey began with studies in Geography, Remote Sensing and Bioclimatology at the University of Munich (1996-2001), culminating in a doctorate in Geography in 2005 from Philipps-Universität Marburg focusing on satellite-based rainfall retrievals.

Nauss's primary research involves spatial sensing of environmental systems through networked sensors, remote sensing, and artificial intelligence. His work pioneers intelligent monitoring systems for biodiversity and ecosystem processes, with significant fieldwork in African montane regions. Key projects include Nature 4.0 for integrated environmental monitoring and contributions to hessian.AI as a founding member.

Analysis of his recent publications reveals a consistent focus on applying remote sensing and AI to ecological challenges. His work spans sensor network deployment, biodiversity assessment in tropical mountains like Mount Kilimanjaro and the Bale Mountains, and development of open-source tools for environmental data analysis, with strong emphasis on climate change impacts and sustainable land management.

Nauss leads the Nature 4.0 initiative for intelligent ecosystem monitoring and co-founded hessian.AI. He also serves on the research advisory board of the Kellerwald-Edersee National Park, contributing expertise in environmental informatics to conservation efforts.