Mission

"The CERC research centre develops practical solutions for relevant problems of mountain regions caused by climate change, extreme events and natural hazards. As a research-, knowledge- and implementation hub, CERC links top international research with regional knowledge so that mountain regions remain safe and valuable habitats in the future."

Main research topics

Weather and climate extremes in mountain regions

We study the effects of climate change on water resources and extreme events in mountain areas.

Permafrost

We study and document changes in permafrost in order to identify future developments at an early stage and thus prevent risks and hazards.

Remote sensing, early detection and early warning

Remote sensing methods like radar, photogrammetry or laser scanning are becoming increasingly important in natural-hazard research.

Alpine mass movements

We research on the formation, movement and deposition processes of avalanches, landslides, debris flows and rockfall and simulate them with physical models.

Mountain ecosystems and protection forests

We study the transformation of mountain ecosystems as a result of climate change, land use change and natural disturbances.

Risk management, risk communication and resilience

We develop risk-based and practical methods that help dealing with the risks of natural hazards.