WasserCluster Lunz - Biologische Station

WasserCluster Lunz (WCL) is a non-profit research center that is affiliated with the University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences Vienna, the University for Continuing Education Krems, and the University of Vienna and is financially supported by the Provincial Government of Lower Austria and the Municipality of Vienna. WCL pursues basic and applied research on aquatic ecosystems. Our researchers work on current questions of aquatic ecosystem research, such as climate change, biodiversity, and water resource management. WCL also has a strong focus on teaching closely linked to the research activities and offers university and postgraduate training at an international level. WCL provides practical experiences for high school and university students and offers workshops for school students dealing with freshwater ecology and the nature of science. WCL is an active participant in several educational collaborations within the local community and conducts scientific outreach activities. Science education and communication are fundamental components of WCL's Science Strategy. WCL is currently the lead partner of the “Interdisciplinary network for science education Lower Austria (INSE)”," which is dedicated to advancing science literacy in Lower Austria. INSE is an ever-growing network of research institutions, teacher training organizations, youth organizations, science educators, nature museums, and partner schools that are committed to increasing science literacy in the public. We believe that limited trust in science is closely linked to a lack of understanding of the research process and scientifically generated data. WCL actively initiates and participates in various scientific outreach initiatives, including the Long Night of Research, Open House Day, and holiday programs for children and adults. We regularly host public scientific seminars and developed an educational geocaching theme trail known as "Finding Lunzi" around the local lake. WCL engages in educational cooperation projects and pedagogic activities at the regional level. We have established numerous partnerships with local schools and offer freshwater ecology workshops at the local nature museum, Haus der Wildnis, to school students of all ages. We are looking for partners to expand our network and develop innovative and inclusive ways to increase science literacy among youth across Europe.