We aim to understand the fundamental processes that shape our freshwater ecosystems and their biotic communities, also taking into account the regional and societal context in which they are embedded. What ecological and evolutionary dynamics are aquatic organisms undergoing? What are the drivers and implications of changes in biodiversity? How can we safeguard the ecosystem services provided by inland waters, ranging from water security and natural flood protection to fisheries or positive effects on human health? And what role can nature-based solutions play in this? In our programme areas, we want to find answers to these questions.