Water Science Alliance — Joining forces
The scientific expertise of German water research is excellent in individual areas, but in particular, the national networking and international visibility of the entire field of research are inadequate. The Water Science Alliance establishes structures that help to better utilise the existing potential of German water research in the development and processing of complex and interdisciplinary research topics within thematic alliances. The complementarity of the research institutions (major research institutions and universities) results in synergies from the joint use of infrastructures, observatories, and large-scale equipment, as well as the promotion of young scientists, in addition to the sharing of expertise.
Abstract Submission - now open!
16th Water Research Horizon Conference 2026
14 & 15 September 2026 | Berlin
Water Research Horizon Conference 2026, which will proceed jointly with DGL-Tagung in Berlin at Leibniz-Institute of Freshwater Ecology and Inland Fisheries (IGB) from September 14th, 2026 to September 15th, 2026, will host four thematic sessions. This year's conference will be entitled “Theoria cum praxi: zukunft | wasser | gestalten”, based on the famous principle by Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz.
We invite you to submit an abstract for an oral or poster presentation within the 16th Water Research Horizon Conference (#WRHC2026) by the 28th of Mai 2026.
Interdisciplinary Aquatic Ecosystems Research Awards 2026
Call for submissions
The Water Science Alliance e.V. and the Center for Water and Environmental Research (ZWU) at the University of Duisburg-Essen are awarding three prizes for outstanding bachelor's or master's theses in aquatic biodiversity and ecosystem research. Emerging scientists who completed their thesis at a German university can apply or be nominated. Submissions should include a 2-page summary of findings, a CV, and the thesis. The deadline is April 30, 2026. Download the PDF for more details.
Water Science Alliance on LinkedIn
We are excited to announce our new LinkedIn presence! Follow us for exclusive insights into our events, announcements, and initiatives.
News
Comment on the UNU-INWEH Global Water Bankruptcy Report
WSA Comments the UNU-INWEH Global Water Bankruptcy Report
The board of Water Science Alliance e.V. comments on the UNU-INWEH Global Water Bankruptcy Report. The report introduces “bankruptcy” as a new narrative. It emphasizes the need for science-based, interdisciplinary adaptation to structural water deficits and long-term impacts. The WSA has supported this agenda for years. It is important to make water accounting transparent, clearly prioritize water use, strengthen governance, and integrate social, environmental, and economic aspects. The report calls for a reorientation of water management to remain within biophysical limits and underscores the urgency of action. We invite the water research community to jointly propose sustainable, actionable scientific solutions.
Read commentGlobal Change Ecology WSA member appointed to professorship at Ruhr University Bochum
WSA congratulates Prof. Dr. Linda Weiss on her professorship at RUB
WSA member Linda Weiss strengthened the Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology at Ruhr University Bochum on January 1, 2026, with her Global Change Ecology professorship. On January 28, 2026, she gave her inaugural lecture entitled “Molecular Mechanisms of Phenotypic Plasticity: Adaptive Responses Meet Global Change.” We congratulate her on this important calling and look forward to working together within the Water Science Alliance.
Read more15th Water Research Horizon Conference Towards sustainable urban water cycles
Report on the 15th Water Research Horizon Conference
Urban water systems face mounting pressures from climate change and urbanization, demanding innovative, and interdisciplinary solutions. The 15th Water Research Horizon Conference brought together experts from diverse fields to explore sustainable urban water cycles, integrating nature-based solutions and fostering collaboration. This event underscored the vital role of interdisciplinary approaches in addressing water challenges and shaping resilient urban futures.
Read report