Dr B.J.M. Robroek (Bjorn)
Associate professor - Ecology
Programme director Bachelor's Biology - Institute for Biosciences
Teacher Ambassador - Radboud Teaching and Learning Centre
- bjorn.robroek@ru.nl
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+31 6 31133024
Heyendaalseweg 135
6525 AJ NIJMEGEN
Internal postal code: 31
Postbus 9010
6500 GL NIJMEGEN
As an ecologist with over two decades of experience, Bjorn specializes in unraveling the intricate relationships between plants and microbes in peatland ecosystems. His research focuses on understanding how these complex below- and aboveground interactions shape ecosystem functioning. In this light, Bjorn is also fascinated by (plant and microbe) community assembly along large enviro-climatic gradient.
Peatlands have been at the heart of his work (though he also works in alpine grasslands, fens, and tundra); these remarkable ecosystems are the densest terrestial carbon stores and hotspots for specialised species. Yet, these ecosystems are also among the most vulnerable to climate change and human disturbance. Through experimental approaches, Bjorn investigates how plant communities respond to enviro-climatic stressors, how plant-microbe partnerships influence carbon cycling, and how these relationships ultimately can determine ecosystem resilience. His research combines field experiments, controlled mesocosm studies, and molecular techniques to bridge scales from microbial communities to ecosystem processes.
Beyond research, Bjorn is committed to training the next generation of ecologists and translating scientific findings into practical conservation strategies for threatened ecosystems. His extensive international employment history (UK, Sweden, Switzerland) help to have a broad vision on research and education.