Who we are

The scientists at the Netherlands Institute of Ecology (NIOO-KNAW) perform leading ecological research on individual organisms, populations, ecological communities and ecosystems. With about 200 people, NIOO is one of the largest institutes within the Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts & Sciences (KNAW).
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Medewerkers van het NIOO
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Mission & vision

NIOO's mission is to perform leading ecological research on biodiversity, climate change and sustainable use of land and water, to stimulate ecological research of The Netherlands and to share ecological knowledge with society.

Read our mission & vision
Medewerkers van het NIOO
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Facts and figures

  • Projects
    112
  • Employees
    176
  • Scientific Publications
    > 200
  • Budget
    € 19M

Our departments

NIOO has four scientific departments, a Central Management & Services department and a number of collaborations.

  • Animal Ecology

    The department’s research is aimed at understanding the causes and consequences of variation in life-history traits, including the underlying genomic mechanisms, as well as the variation in time and space, of population numbers and population composition.
    Nestkasten AnE

  • Aquatic Ecology

    Our mission is to understand aquatic ecosystems, predict their responses to a changing world, and contribute to a sustainable future.
    Aquatische Ecologie (vijver 3)

  • Microbial Ecology

    The overall aim of the ME-department is to understand the diversity and functions of microorganisms in natural and managed ecosystems.
    ME Department banner (horizontal)

  • Terrestrial Ecology

    The department of Terrestrial Ecology studies species, communities & ecosystems in a rapidly changing world.
    Biodivercity Roof

  • Central Management & Services

    From the Financial administration to ICT, the research institute is receiving support from a number of sections. These sections form together NIOO's Central Management and Services.
    Hoofdingang NIOO-gebouw, main entrance NIOO

  • Collaborations

    Collaborations, translating science to society
    Seedhead

Our people

With more than 200 staff members and students, the Netherlands Institute of Ecology (NIOO-KNAW) is one of the largest research institutes of the Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences (KNAW). 

More about our people
NIOO medewerkers (veel)

Board & Advisory Boards

Our Board of Directors is responsible for the sustainable management of the institute. They are supported by two Advisory Boards.

More about our Boards
Geert bibliotheek

History

Our researchers have studied the ecology of the Netherlands and beyond since 1954.

More about our history
Zwart wit foto met vrouwelijke onderzoeker achter microscoop

Our building

From green roof to 'golden' toilets: the NIOO-building is a showcase for innovative ecotechnology.

More about our building
NIOO