The School of Sustainability invites you to Prof. Dr. Michael Staab’s inaugural lecture on May 6, 2026, on the importance of biodiversity and species interactions for ecosystems.

Title: „Biodiversity, ecosystem functioning and species interaction networks“
Time: Wednesday, May 6 2026, 14.15-15.00 p.m.
Location: Lecture Hall 5 (HS 5)

You can also follow the inaugural lecture online via the following link: https://leuphana.zoom.us/j/93206732182?pwd=TlYyUWNndmVGK3ZJQlJlR09TK1VwQT09

Meeting-ID: 932 0673 2182
Password: 031305

Prof. Dr. Michael Staab has been Professor of Animal Ecology and Trophic Interactions at Leuphana University of Lüneburg since March 2025. His research group studies the ecology of terrestrial invertebrates (particularly insects), with a focus on the effects of changing ecosystems on species communities, interactions between species, and the ecosystem processes that depend on species and interactions. The research conducted by the chair is quantitative and integrates a broad range of methods.

Abstract: All species are not occurring in isolation but are embedded within a complex web of abiotic and biotic interactions. Drawing from my past research on biodiversity, ecosystem functioning and species interactions, I will illustrate why biodiversity matters for ecosystems and how the relationship between biodiversity and functions can be mediated by interactions. The lecture will in part also be a personal journey through different fields of ecology, with an outlook on current and future research directions.

Academic context

The event is the first inaugural lecture of the School of Sustainability in the summer semester of 2026 and offers insights into the research profile and academic focus of the newly appointed professorship.

Contact

  • Jennifer Fandrich