Wolfram Graf

Wolfram Graf is an Associate Professor at the Institute of Hydrobiology and Aquatic Ecosystem Management, Department of Ecosystem Management, Climate and Biodiversity, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna (BOKU). He has been a central figure in freshwater ecological research since the 1990s, leading numerous national and international projects focused on river ecosystems, biodiversity assessment, and environmental monitoring. His work is deeply embedded in policy-relevant science, contributing to the EU Water Framework Directive and national conservation efforts.

His educational background includes a doctoral degree (1997) and postdoctoral qualification (Habilitation) in Hydrobiology (2013). His research spans a wide array of topics in freshwater science, with a strong emphasis on macrozoobenthos, bioindication, taxonomic studies of aquatic insects (especially Trichoptera and Plecoptera), and the ecological impacts of hydropeaking. He also pioneers the use of environmental DNA (eDNA) and citizen science in monitoring and conservation, as seen in projects like 'AmphiBiom' for the European green toad.

His recent publications reveal a consistent focus on freshwater biodiversity, taxonomy of aquatic insects, and anthropogenic impacts on river systems. He investigates species distributions, community composition in headwater streams, and the effectiveness of ecological restoration. His work integrates molecular methods, field ecology, and interdisciplinary approaches, often in collaboration with European and global partners.

Scientific Awards:

• Neptun Wasserpreis (2021) – Awarded to his PhD student Geda Kebede Oncho, recognizing Graf's supervision in water research.
• Liepolt-Preis (1997) – Awarded by the Austrian National Committee of the International Danube Research Commission (ÖNIAD).

Wolfram Graf is actively involved in advising and grant-funded research. He leads the working group 'Rheophylax' and has been the principal investigator on numerous projects funded by the Austrian Science Fund (FWF), European Commission, Austrian Federal Ministries, and private institutions. His grants focus on innovative monitoring (eDNA), river restoration, biodiversity assessment, and socio-ecohydrological systems. He has supervised multiple theses and continues to mentor the next generation of freshwater scientists.

He is a key member of the 'Rheophylax' working group, which focuses on the ecology and conservation of riverine systems. His collaborative network spans institutes within BOKU and across Europe, contributing to large-scale initiatives like AQUACROSS and the HR21 Doctoral School, which promote integrative, interdisciplinary research on human-impacted river systems.