• Multi-stressor impacts on freshwater ecosystems and organisms
• Linking biological responses to ecosystem functioning
• Combining molecular data with quantitative analyses

Freshwater ecosystems are increasingly exposed to multiple, interacting stressors driven by climate change and human activities. More frequent and intense temperature fluctuations and altered flow regimes are placing rivers under growing pressure. These stressors often interact in complex ways, affecting organisms and ecosystem functioning, yet most research has focused on single stressors or simplified systems. This leaves important gaps in understanding how multiple stressors jointly influence key ecological processes.

This project investigates, among other things, how heatwaves, low-flow conditions, and suspended sediments affect the structure and functioning of freshwater ecosystems. Specifically, it will (1) assess responses of biofilms and primary consumers to individual and combined stressors, (2) quantify ecosystem processes such as leaf litter decomposition under multi-stressor scenarios, and (3) compare short-term (pulse) versus long-term (press) disturbances. The findings will improve predictions of ecosystem responses and inform effective management strategies.

This postdoc is funded through a Humboldt Research Fellowship from the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation.