With my research I focus on gaining understanding on the effects of human activity on streams and river systems. Human activity frequently alters physical (e.g. discharge, temperature) and chemical (e.g. nutrients) parameters and even introduce toxins to the streams. In my recent research I particularly looked at the microbial nitrifying community and on the effect of microplastic on the stream environment (see below). To reach my research goals, I use methods out of microbial ecology, biogeochemistry and ecotoxicology to identify and quantify the effect of this inputs.<\/p>\n
Microbial nitrifying organisms
\n\u2022 Interactions\/niche separation among different microbes relevant to the nitrogen (N) cycle
\n\u2022 Determining abiotic and biotic factors shaping microbial nitrifying communities
\n\u2022 Environmental distribution of microbial nitrifyers and its link to biogeochemical processes at ecosystem scale.
\n\u2022 Identification and mitigation of human pressure on nitrifying microbial communities<\/p>\n
Microplastic research
\n\u2022 The effect of microplastic on stream microbial community composition and function
\n\u2022 The interaction between aquatic grazers and Microplastic
\n\u2022 Combined effects of Microplastic and persistent organic pollutants in streams<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
– Research projects of which I am PI:<\/p>\n