Matteo Anderle receives Gergely Prize for Research on Species Protection

Matteo Anderle receives Gergely Prize for Research on Species Protection

Environmental research in Austria takes another big step forward: On July 11, 2025, Stefan M. Gergely Prize for young researchers in environmental, nature and species protection was awarded. This prize, which is donated by the Austrian Academy of Sciences (ÖAW), emphasizes outstanding dissertations in biodiversity research. In a solemn ceremony in the John's Hall of the ÖAW, not only three outstanding scientists were awarded: inside, but also five journalists. Among the award winners: The biologist Matteo Anderle stands out from the University of Innsbruck inside.

different -les dissertation is devoted to the fascinating ecology of alpine birds and analyzes their role as indicators for biodiversity patterns in the Alps. His research illuminates how ecological and landscape factors influence the spread of these birds. The goal: to gain knowledge that contribute to the preservation of alpine biodiversity and support future research and protection efforts.

The importance of research

The price, which is endowed with 36,000 euros, was donated by Stefan M. Gergely, who emphasizes the decisive role of science in the search for solutions for current ecological challenges. Climate change, a central topic of today, is not only a challenge, but also a large area of research. In this context, the topics that are dealt with in the "Environment & Biodiversity" department are of great relevance. He takes on socially urgent questions, such as the climate crisis, the loss of biodiversity and the increasing natural disasters.

students and researchers deal with dynamic processes of the earth's surface, the interactions of organisms and their environment as well as with the recording of biodiversity at different levels. These basic and application -oriented research projects increase the need for interdisciplinary cooperation with regional institutions - especially in the Alpine region, but also in other climatic zones such as the tropics and the Mediterranean.

climate change and biodiversity

As science shows, climate change is one of the greatest challenges of the 21st century. It not only endangers the biological diversity, but also has far -reaching effects on the entire climate system. Your understanding has a key role in developing adaptation and reduction strategies. The interactions between climate change and biodiversity are mutual: changes in the climate influence the survival and the spread of species, while ecosystem services such as pollination and water cleaning are considerably endangered.

The practically strict challenges not only show in the Arctic, where the sea ice disappears, but also in the moderate zones, where native species are threatened. This makes the need for action clear: protection and adaptation strategies are necessary to protect biodiversity. Renaturation projects, the promotion of agrobiodiversity and increased public awareness are urgently required to stop the creeping loss of biological diversity.

Finally, it can be stated: The work of researchers like Matteo Anderle is not only of academic interest, but also have far -reaching practical consequences for the preservation of our environment. In times when challenges such as the climate crisis and the loss of biodiversity are the order of the day, it is important that such valuable research will receive the attention they earn.

For more information about the Stefan M. Gergely Prize and the excellent work by Matteo Anderle, visit the pages of University of Innsbruck , University of Salzburg and das-wissen.de .