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My current research covers bioindication and the diagnosis of the effects of multiple stressors on freshwater ecosystems, recovery of aquatic communities from multiple stressors after restoration (incl. the role of dispersal) and freshwater biodiversity at different spatial scales. I have been involved in EU projects on the implementation of the Water Framework Directive and related topics since 2000. Besides, I am interested in a better understanding of freshwater ecosystem functioning and how functions and relevant processes might be linked to biological and ecological traits.

I’m currently working on approaches to diagnose the causes of freshwater ecosystem deterioration using Bayesian Networks. The objective is to develop interactive tools that allow practitioners to better link biological assessments with the causes of degradation, to identify appropriate programs of measures and options for restoration.

Since 2005, I hold a PhD in biology (Dr. rer. nat.) granted by the University of Duisburg-Essen. Since 2018, I am habilitated in ecology at the University of Duisburg-Essen. I am teaching ecosystem ecology, ecology and protection of freshwater ecosystems, ecological field methods and statistical analysis at bachelor and master level. My publication history covers studies on bioindication using benthic invertebrates, biodiversity and functional redundancy, ecosystem services, the role of riparian buffers for river integrity and diagnostic tools to identify causes of river deterioration.