The Industrial Systems Division is set up as a resource and contact point for manufacturing businesses and research partners, active at a national or international level, to further develop and realise implementation of innovative and visionary ideas. The essential thrust of the solutions offered is an increase in efficiency of energy and resource utilisation and in the share of renewables in power supply and hybrid process systems. Digitisation is used, as a methodological aid and tool, to develop concepts for configuring and operating the internal power supply, based on technical, ecological and economic principles, and to link it with other sectors.

AEE INTEC develops, demonstrates and optimises power supply concepts for district heating or smaller grid-connected solutions. A value-added toolbox, comprising simulations, intelligent data evaluation and spatial planning tools, is constantly being developed to match the ever-growing complexity of our energy systems. Along with digitisation, energy storage and generation technologies, integration of varying energy systems, such as electricity and gas networks, and infrastructure, such as wastewater and mobility, can offer significant potential to make the transition of heating and cooling systems sustainable, both from a technological and financial, as well as an ecological and social perspective. With our extensive expertise in whole system concepts that connect across sectors, and fossil fuel phase-out solutions for local and city authorities, we are a direct point of contact to representatives for public authorities.

The focus of the division is on zero and energy-plus buildings both for new construction and refurbishment. The basic components of this are efficiency, improvement of building services technology and integration of regenerative energy sources. Following the basic laws of physics and thermodynamics, we develop technology, district energy and building concepts, based on the three pillars (ecology, economy and social issues) of the sustainable development model, that are scalable for buildings and the public domain. Our R&D activities cover a wide spectrum, from the development of individual elements to demonstration projects for local neighbourhoods. A key aspect of our activities is giving due consideration to the whole “building” system over the full life cycle.

AEE INTEC conducts research and develops new technological solutions and concepts for closed-loop water recycling and recycling of reusable materials, which ensures the sustainable use of water as a resource. Water audits are a key tool in the development of sustainable concepts for closed-loop recycling in industry – we offer this as a service to companies and specialise in developing approaches for optimisation across industry sectors. In the development of technology, the key focus is on testing, configuration and demonstration of membrane distillation, as a process innovation for purification, recycling and recovery of valuable materials from industrial processes and wastewater streams. One of the core technologies is the removal of nitrogen from wastewater, by membrane distillation, to produce a valuable reusable material (energy vector, chemical, nutrient). At AEE INTEC, we research the use of new and emerging (PI - process intensification) technologies to dramatically improve the efficiency in use of resources and energy in bio-based processes; from continuous processes, low process volumes and higher yields to less use of valuable catalysts and reactants. We offer experimental pilot studies on the use of the core technologies of membrane processes and oscillating flow bioreactors, for industrial biorefineries based on timber, agricultural and biomass residues.

The Thermal Energy Storage Group offers solutions that are capable of specifically meeting the challenges of the future energy system, in terms of flexibility, efficiency and costs. For balancing the volatility of renewables in district and local heating networks, large-scale heat and borehole storage (up to 120 °C) offers a particularly cost-effective solution, while for long-term storage, the very compact size and low losses of thermochemical storage (up to 300 °C) make it particularly suitable for building applications as well as for cross sector coupling. Beyond this, AEE INTEC is also active in chemical storage (up to 800 °C), which, due to even greater compactness and higher operating temperatures, is able to offer significant reductions in CO2 for energy-intensive industrial and district heating applications.

Building on more than 30 years of experience in thermal solar technology, the Institute is involved in the development of hybrid PVT collectors (combined solar thermal and PV), novel compression heat pumps and absorption technologies for chillers, heat pumps and heat transformers. Alongside the development of prototypes in the institute's own technical laboratory, the working group is also able to draw on many years of experience in monitoring and data-driven optimisation of real urban and industrial energy systems. Developments in technology are therefore always conducted using a holistic, integrated, whole energy system approach, and our close contact with end users and customers ensures that research work is always based on the real needs and requirements of the market. In terms of increased overall system efficiency, in many of our projects we combine both varying technologies and sectors, such as in energy communities.

Timber as the key to reducing greenhouse gas emissions in building and construction. R&D in construction timber, cross-laminated timber, solid wood-based materials and wood fasteners. Modelling and analysis of wood construction screws. Multi-storey timber buildings in an urban context. Circular economy through KD (knockdown) building structures / R&D related to life cycle approaches in the building and construction sector, both in terms of life cycle costs and environmental impact throughout all phases of the building life cycle: building planning, construction, use, demolition and disposal. Research and feasibility studies into service life and maintenance and cleaning intervals, predominantly for façade structures.

The Institute of Vehicle Technology at the Joanneum University of Applied Sciences is dedicated to innovative vehicle concepts and sustainable mobility. The activities are centred around the whole vehicle with a particular focus on virtual system development (modelling and simulation) and testing (mechatronic control systems as well as application, component and whole system tests).

Power electronics is a key technology in improving energy efficiency in the areas of power generation, industrial processes and mobility. With optimum use of latest semiconductor technology, based on silicon carbide (SiC) and gallium nitride (GaN), a wide variety of electrical energy converters are being developed, with efficiencies typically close to 99%. Through close cooperation with regional partners, a complete value chain has evolved for the development of power electronic products. Example applications include: Highly compact SiC transistor-based inverters for grid connection and for high-speed drives for automotive applications, test devices for battery and fuel cells and DC-DC converters for fuel cell-powered vehicles.

IT security is a strong point of focus for research; dealing with issues that range from secure software development to security gaps in a variety of corporate mobile operating systems and mobile solutions, and from infrastructure availability to network security in various sectors including aviation. The Fit4BA - Fit for Big Data and Artificial Intelligence - research project is primarily aimed at creating an application-oriented research and innovation centre at the Joanneum University of Applied Sciences. Our vision encompasses three critical roles: The support of companies with their ideas for innovation, conducting relevant research and facilitating the knowledge transfer of experience into practical teaching.
AI and Big Data projects present value-added opportunities for virtually every industry sector, in effect wherever data is generated – be it in aviation, banking or smart mobility.

Research in the field of Sustainable Foodstuffs and Process Development: Pursuing an integrated and sustainable approach to innovation for foodstuffs and food production. Integrated Insect Innovations spi³ is a large-scale project currently in progress, that is focused on sustainable production of protein for animal feed and foodstuffs. For sustainable systemic impact, the research group works in close cooperation with the Sustainable Food Systems research group, for example, in the H2020 project FAIRCHAIN.
Research in the field of Sustainable Food Systems: The aim of the research group is to identify and support paths leading to sustainable development within food systems. Research topics include:
Future Regional Food Supply, Urban-Rural Links for food production and consumption, Sustainable Innovation for food.
Highlighted aspects include: a range of product and process innovations successfully established in the market; a high level of visibility both internationally and nationally, and networking of research activities (publications, conferences, papers, media reports).

Simulations for Professional Training, Game Based Learning and Serious Game Design, Mixed and Cross Reality Design, User Experience Design, Service Design, Information Design | both national and EU-funded research as well as contract research for industry and the public sector.

Within remote sensing, solutions and products are offered for: environmental monitoring, safety-related monitoring tasks and for mobile multi-sensor data acquisition and analysis. The scope of data handled ranges from optical, thermal, video and laser scanner data to SAR data. Developing geo-management systems and mobile information systems for tourism and disaster management are other key tasks of the research group.

The Image Analysis and Measurement Systems research group uses a range of machine vision techniques for applications in industrial inspection, human-centric image analysis and vision-driven robotics. By using imaging sensors, with an information processing system for mapping the necessary algorithms and an integrating, mechatronic configuration, 2D and multidimensional measurement tasks can be conducted, quality checks can be performed, and running processes can be spatially and/or dynamically documented, thus allowing for the basic creation of an automated interpretation of scenes and processes.

The Intelligent Acoustic Solutions research group conducts applied research in the field of audio and acoustics. The areas of application range from acoustic monitoring and sensor development to the design of voice-controlled, interactive man-machine systems. Our core competencies are: Digital signal processing, artificial intelligence and machine learning, speech recognition and natural language processing, software architecture and development for acoustic real-time systems, hardware design and electronics development, and interaction design for multimodal interfaces.

Information security is the core element of digitisation. Due to the ever increasing importance of this issue, a separate competence group in the field of cyber security and defence has been established within the DIGITAL institute. Research into methodologies for analysing the security of IT networks leads to improved statements about vulnerability to cyber attacks. New tools to increase cyber defence capability improve the usability of cyber security for both businesses and government agencies. As the creation of applications for the Internet of Things, e.g., for the smart home, spirals upwards, while at the same time there is a dearth of adequate security standards to cover them, IoT security has become a special technical focus of the research group.

The research group deals with the issue of Modern Information Management and the associated key technologies of cloud/edge computing, including data analytics with networked sensors. We provide tailor-made digital platforms for smart workflows. The complete horizontal value chain is considered, from data collection to utilisation.

The focus of the Smart Connected Lighting research group is the implementation of comprehensive light and lighting concepts, including sensors, control, regulation, networking and communication. Functional lighting can be used in the following fields of application: Building control (smart buildings), smart cities, general lighting, automotive and agriculture (greenhouse, smart farming).

We develop innovative structuring processes, which have the potential for large-scale production of flexible micro and nanostructured layers or fully integrated components in organic electronics and optoelectronics, and in packaging, lighting and medical technology, or as chemical, physical and biological sensors (systems in foil and printed electronics).

The focus of our work is the use of “Light as a Tool” for energy-efficient lighting, (building-integrated) photovoltaics and laser-based microstructuring, nanostructuring and processing of materials, as well as the development of corresponding manufacturing processes and subsequent transfer to series production.

We develop chemical and biosensors, as compact analytical systems for the continuous detection of chemical (e.g., O2, CO2) or biological substances, for the chemical and food sectors, for energy and safety technology and environmental monitoring, and in the hygiene sector (sanitary facilities and food production) as well as in the human and veterinary medicine sectors.

The Weather and Climate Risk Management research group has well-established methodological expertise in modelling the sensitivity of economic activities to weather and climate, at a high spatial resolution level. The research group focuses on risk modelling, impact and vulnerability assessment, the development of high spatial resolution forecasting systems and the analysis of economic value chains.

The Sustainable Energy Systems and Lifestyles research group supports business, government and society on the path to climate neutrality. This is based on a sustainable energy system that is characterised by renewable energy, maximum energy efficiency, the provision of intelligent, demand-oriented energy products and services, and the involvement of end users and consumers (e.g., change in lifestyle). The aim is to reduce the greenhouse gas emissions of the economic system to a minimum (low-carbon economy) by helping to develop sustainable products and services and supporting the societal shift towards low-carbon lifestyles.

The International Climate Policy and Economics research group has gained an international as well as national reputation in the field of energy and climate policy evaluation and the designs of corresponding instruments. With strong ties in international research networks, the group develops the latest climate policy strategies for business and government using qualitative and quantitative economic methodologies. A key focus of the group is the further development of these analysis tools beyond the current state-of-the-art.

Arising from the many years of experience of its team members, the Urban Living Lab competence group has a well-established methodological expertise in transport modelling and in systemic and functional planning and design of infrastructure facilities in urban and rural areas. To further extend this expertise, new methods for measuring and modelling as well as for evaluating and monitoring individual transport behaviour and freight flows are being developed and utilised.

Climate Change Graz is a field of excellence with the goal of improved understanding of the uncertainties, risks and opportunities associated with climate change, in particular with respect to critical threshold values, which, if exceeded, threaten the continued existence of various systems. To this end, potential strategies are being evaluated, for a transition to a near emission-free and climate-resilient economy and society, which are associated with a fundamental process transformation across a range of economic, production, social, political and legal activities and ways of life.

The Wegener Center for Climate and Global Change at the University of Graz is an internationally recognised institute with a focus on research and the training of highly qualified young scientists. It is concerned with both the physical and the socio-economic aspects of climate change and global change. The institute has continued to develop n a very positive way since its foundation in 2005, as a temporary centre that was subsequently given permanent institute status in 2013, and is now home to around fifty research personnel at all levels, from young researchers to professors.

The EconClim research group is concerned with the socio-economic aspects of climate and environmental change, in particular how humans, both individually and society as a whole, contribute to global climate and environmental change and how they are affected by it. A specific focus is on potential courses of action, both to adapt to global climate and environmental change and to mitigate against it. The geographic focus of the analysis is Austria, but takes into account the European and global level.

- Environmental and resource economics and policy
- Economics of climate change
- Transport and land use economics
- CGE modelling (theoretical, applied)
- Dynamic modelling (OLG models, optimal control)

This new research group is currently being established, under the direction of Prof. Dr. Ilona M. Otto, Professor of Social Consequences of Climate Change at the Wegener Center for Climate and Global Change at the University of Graz, and will focus on Social Complexity and System Transformation. The aim of the group is to use complex scientific theory and novel research methods to analyse social dynamic processes and intervention mechanisms that can trigger the rapid social changes necessary to radically transform the interaction of human society with nature over the next 30 years. It uses a variety of research methodologies, including social surveys, case studies, behavioural experiments, and simulations, to analyse issues related to global environmental change, development, adaptation, and sustainability.

The principle of the circular economy pursues the goal of ecological and social sustainability. The Christian Doppler Laboratory for Sustainable Product Management in a Circular Economy collects data about the entire life cycle of products and services and defines the corresponding basic principles. The output of research work is expected to yield instruments, methodologies and concepts for collecting ecological and social data about products and services, along the supply chain, in the use and disposal phases and in recycling, for the purpose of ecological and social evaluation, for designing these products and services and for utilisation of the collected data for further use cases (e.g., reporting, compliance management).

The Institute for Systems Science, Innovation and Sustainability Research (SIS) is concerned with the question of sustainable development. The main thrust is on the analysis of transition, innovation and adaptation processes in human environment systems, with a focus on regions and organisations. We base our research on theories and concepts of systems and sustainability science and develop interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary methods for the analysis and modelling of human environment systems. By developing scenarios and transition paths, we evaluate strategies to control them.

Timber in the thermal power station. Rapeseed oil in the fuel tank. Maize as packaging material. Renewable raw materials are a scarce and consequently valuable resource, but their use sometimes triggers ecological, economic and social conflicts. The question of when and how pioneering technologies are implemented is a key area of research. In many cases, it is about the disconnect between technical maturity and practical implementation. Another key issue is addressing the potential consequences of these innovations. Overall, the theme of the bio-economy, as a field of research in Styria, will be further strengthened.

Sustainable transition and innovation with a focus on renewable energy. Industrial Ecology, transdisciplinary learning for sustainable development.

Environmental Sociology focuses on environmental behaviour and attitudes by means of research surveys, and makes an excellent addition to the current fields of research within Climate Change Graz. Within the framework for Environmental Sociology, examination is being conducted into the influence of global and national forces on behaviour, impacting the environment and CO2 emissions, as well as, for example, the social effects of replacing coal in steel mills or polarized attitudes towards climate change in public and social media. Markus Hadler is also the Austrian representative of the International Social Survey Programme (www.issp.org), a group of researchers from 48 countries currently focusing on environmental attitudes and behaviour.

Meteorology and geophysical research within the department traditionally includes External Geophysics, the physics of the entire earth's atmosphere. The university has operated a meteorological station since 1836 and at the current location since 1891. The research group is currently supervising a semi-automated weather station (TAWES) in cooperation with the Central Institute for Meteorology and Geodynamics. In addition, as part of the ARAD project (Austrian RADiation), high-quality radiation measurements are conducted at the University of Graz and at the Kanzelhöhe Observatory in collaboration with the Central Institute for Meteorology and Geodynamics. Research in the field of remote atmospheric sensing and the climate system is carried out in close cooperation with the ARSCliSys working group at the Wegener Center for Climate and Global Change. The physics of the upper atmosphere (aeronomics) is a focus for research conducted jointly with the Institute for Space Research of the Austrian Academy of Sciences.

The focus of my interest in research is changes in regional climate and methodologies for estimating them. In particular, I deal with natural fluctuation and extreme levels of precipitation, and the associated changes due to man-made climate change. In parallel with this, I have been working on the evaluation of regional climate models over recent years. How weather in Europe might change in the future has been an increasing area of interest in my research for some time now: Will the nature of storms, precipitation or drought alter and what are the underlying processes?

The ARSCliSys research group investigates modern satellite based methods for remote sensing of the atmosphere and the climate system, as well as new ground based methods with very high resolution, and applies them to climate research. How strong is global warming today and how will it develop in the future? How does it affect the Alpine region, Austria and Styria, for example in relation to extreme weather and climate? A particularly suitable method for a global perspective in answering such questions is the occultation technique using signals from global navigation satellites (GPS, Galileo) or Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites. The group is one of the international leaders in investigation and exploitation of these signals. In the specific habitat of the Alpine region, the WegenerNet is a pioneering experiment by the group: A novel network of climate stations in the Feldbach and Johnsbachtal regions (Styria/Aust.) for observation of weather and climate to a spatial resolution scale of 1 km. Satellite data and ground data are used together with climate model simulation to study climate variability, climate trends, as well as extremes of weather and climate. The focus is on global climate change and developing linkages to regional and local climate and environmental change in the Alpine region. ARSCliSys cooperates closely with the Regional Climate and ClimEMet working groups in key joint research on hydrological extremes in climate change. The group also works closely with the Department of Geophysics, Astrophysics and Meteorology/Institute of Physics ((IGAM/IP), partner institute of the Wegener Center at the Faculty of Natural Sciences, and is a participant in the Atmospheric and Climate Physics working group of the IGAM/IP. In addition, ARSCliSys works locally, nationally and internationally with many renowned partners and partner groups and actively contributes to setting the framework for the international research agenda in the primary field of research.

Prof. Dr. Meyer actively works in the fields of philosophy, ethics, political philosophy, legal philosophy and social philosophy. His research focus is on justice in time and space. Ongoing research projects cover intergenerational justice, climate change ethics and historical justice.

ClimLaw: Graz is a research centre for climate protection law at the law faculty of the University of Graz. The task of the research centre is to critically observe and analyse current developments in climate protection law, especially from an Austrian perspective, and to carry out research projects focused on climate protection and environmental law in collaboration with national and international academic and practitioning partners. By networking in the areas of climate research, economics and ethics, etc., and close cooperation with stakeholders, ClimLaw: Graz works across disciplines and acts as an expert point of contact for scientific opinions, information and legal advice.

The urban HEAP (Health and Everyday Activities take Place) research group focuses on interactions between everyday social life and the socio-spatial and ecological environment. It conducts critical interdisciplinary urban research and is currently working on the following research projects and topics (see link).

The RCE Graz-Styria (Regional Center of Expertise) is the centre for sustainable social transformation at the University of Graz. We specialise in transdisciplinary research projects and innovative educational opportunities to find practical answers to ecological and social challenges within the region.

Replenishment of groundwater resources by seepage from infiltrating precipitation (or snowmelt), i.e., recharging the groundwater, is driven by processes at or near the land surface that are closely related to specific weather events and are influenced by direct or indirect impacts of climate change. A better understanding of future changes in the distribution/intensity of precipitation, as well as vegetation and land use (especially with regard to plant/plant water requirements) is therefore essential for improved forecasting of hydrological processes, such as groundwater recharge, flooding, etc. The availability of groundwater resources does not just depend on the replenishment rate, but also on the management of water resources and thus on socio-economic changes (e.g., increased water demand due to a change from rain-fed to irrigated agriculture). In addition, these changes represent important challenges for ecosystems dependent on groundwater, which can only be recorded in an interdisciplinary manner. Research into hydrology therefore makes an important contribution to a better understanding of the ecological, but also economic changes caused by climate change.

The Cascade working group aims to contribute to the understanding of the geomorphological process connections, as well as the corresponding human-environment interactions, in mountain areas and thus to improving the basis for adequately dealing with the associated opportunities and risks. This requires a combination of varying expertise and methodologies. A particular aspect of emphasis, is imparting knowledge and skills to trainees at various levels.

Although mountain regions only make up about a quarter of the land area, they affect a large part of the earth. From a climatological perspective, they modulate atmospheric circulation, radiation and water balance and are therefore sensitive indicators of changes in the climate system against various scales. In order to deepen our knowledge of the specifics of climate in cold regions (high mountains and polar regions), we combine in situ measurements with modern modelling approaches. This enables us to identify and quantify drivers, processes and impacts of climate change in mountain regions. The goal is thus to contribute to an improved understanding of global climate change.

Michael Finus conducts research on externalities (spill overs), where coordination and collaboration would result in global welfare gains, but which typically suffer from freeriding (i.e., not everyone contributing their fair share). He evaluates which factors cause freeriding and how and through which measures it can be mitigated. Many of these issues relate to collective decision-making and public and global governance. International and global environmental issues such as climate change and overfishing are high-profile examples of this.

Within the context of sustainability research, the focus is on green processes. These must be scalable in order to achieve an appropriate environmental impact. This requires work on direct translation from laboratory to the industrial scale. To achieve this, it is imperative that safe, robust and cost-effective processes are developed, from the earliest design phase, by bringing together ideas from green chemistry and green engineering. Continuous flow processing is specifically designed to address these needs: A wide variety of processes can maximise efficiency—whether this is in mass, energy, space, and time—through improved heat and mass transfer, precise dwell time control, shorter process times, better product quality, reduced footprint, or simple scalability. The contributions of the Kappe Group include the development of continuous processes for the production of a wide range of chemicals with special attention given to sustainability and environmental impact.

Research in the Barta Group focuses on sustainability and green chemistry with a special focus on the conversion of renewable raw materials and catalysis with earth-based metals.
1.) Synthesis and characterisation of novel heterogeneous catalysis for the splitting of lignocellulosic resources, including pre-treatment and characterisation.
2.) Development of new homogeneous catalytic methods for the cost-effective atomic level functionalisation of the building blocks obtained.

The Functional Diversity & Ecology working group examines the diversity and processes in communities and their interaction with the environment. A particular focus is on cryptogam colonies growing on soil, rock and epiphytic plants on bark and even on the leaves of trees. These micro-ecosystems are composed of photosynthetic active organisms (e.g., lichens, mosses, algae, cyanobacteria) and decomposers (e.g., fungi, bacteria, archaea), while consumers (protozoa, nematodes, tardigrade bears and microarthropods) also appear regularly in these colonies. Biological organisms occur in their habitat in colonies that pursue intensive and diverse exchange with each other and their environment. Our working group is concerned with the functional processes within the colonies, their exchange mechanisms with the environment and the effects of global change, based both on change in climate and in land use. We investigate the relevance of these colonies of organisms in global processes and cycles, which in turn are directly influenced by climate change.

Energy/battery materials, solid state diffusion, ion dynamics (Li, Na, F ion conductors), NMR spectroscopy.
Porous polymers, materials for energy storage, advancement of polymerisation techniques, materials for solar energy conversion, rubber chemistry & technology.
Technologies to improve the functionality and performance of kesterite and perovskite based photovoltaics.
Zinc/air flow battery with innovative electrolytes for storing regenerative energy and grid stabilisation.

Implementing Agreement: Advanced Fuel Cells, Annex 29: Polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells; Li-ion battery.
Efficient use of raw materials in multi-component systems in the chemical industry.
New ways of utilising lignin and fibre fractions from pulp and wood pulp production.

Innovative membrane distillation for the recovery of recyclable materials and energy in municipal wastewater treatment; Integration of the wastewater infrastructure in regional energy supply concepts; Knowledge Triangle Platform for the Water-Energy-Food Nexus (TRINEX). Gas cleaning. New ways of utilising lignin and fibre fractions from pulp and wood pulp production.

Wastewater concepts, map of thermal energy in the Graz wastewater network, corporate benchmarking of drinking water supply in Austria.
Emission load estimates from the two mixed water overflow basins of ARA Klagenfurt; recording of emissions of selected trace substances from sewer systems, with options for action to reduce these traces and optimisation of an alternative detection method for plastic particles in water samples.

Assessment of environmental impacts throughout the life cycle of buildings; Methods for evaluating embodied energy and CO2 emissions from buildings (construction products);
Creation of a requirements profile and development of a CPD (continuous professional development) scheme, for intermediate and higher educational levels of tradespeople, on the theme of energy efficiency and the use of renewable energy sources in buildings.
Robotic additive manufacturing of concrete elements.

Development of low-cost pellet/firewood stove technology with the lowest emissions; SOFC APU System Development II; development of a multi-fuel biomass boiler with the lowest pollutant emissions; development of methods and concepts for the implementation of sustainable urban energy systems; high-temperature fuel cells (SOFCs) - stationary accelerated life tests, optimised cost control and operating behaviour of complex energy networks.
High efficiency photovoltaic/heat pump combinations for the building refurbishment market; industrial heat pumps; heat pumps in apartment buildings; integrative analysis for spatial and techno-economic evaluation of low-temperature district heating concepts; high solar density due to thermally activated building components in the urban environment.

Integration of renewable energy into industrial production processes, use of CO2 as a raw material (CCU process), e-fuels, energy engineering processes for closed-loop material cycles, thermal cracking of polyolefins (chemical recycling of plastics), development of processes for sustainable treatment, processing and use of biogenic raw materials (microalgae, energy crops, biogas), biogenic residues (sewage sludge, fermentation residues, organic waste, liquid manure) and wastewater (municipal/industrial wastewater, cloudy water, seepage water).

Waste treatment plants of the future will be equipped with sensor-based sorting and quality control technologies. The Digital Waste Research Lab enables experimental research from laboratory up to industrial scale. The ReWasteF competence centre and the digital waste technology working group are developing new solutions, particularly for mixed municipal and plastic waste.
Recycling and safety aspects of lithium-ion batteries have been a focus for many years. The emphasis is on minimisation of the fire risk and potential for utilisation of the raw materials.
Mineral waste, especially from industry, is characterised using mineralogical waste methods, the mobility of pollutants is modelled and assessed, and recycling solutions for specific material flows are developed.
Technologies for remediation of contaminated sites and landfill mining are being developed in order to make use of the future potential in secondary raw materials.

In our research we deal with the analysis, modelling, simulation and optimisation of complex energy systems.
Systemic Energy Efficiency in Industry: Making complex industrial energy systems more efficient through energy recovery, preparing them for utilisation of renewables and opening up the potential for flexibility.
Integrated Energy Systems: Hybrid energy networks (connecting energy carriers). Solutions for system integration of renewables and options for flexibility. The integration of storage for varying energy carriers with demand-side management and new power consumers, such as electric vehicles or heat pumps, as well as on-demand industrial energy generation systems.

The main emphasis in simulation and modelling, under The Chair of Thermoprocess Technology, is predominantly on reactive flows. The focus here is on combustion reactions, which are considered both in the homogeneous and in the heterogeneous ranges. Within the activities in the High Temperature Process Technology area, high temperature recycling processes play a central role. Energy technology deals with the development of new renewable energy sources, supply strategies and the energy efficiency for processes in industry. Research in the field of process and plant safety research is aimed at supporting and significantly promoting developments that will continue to guarantee a high level of safety in the extraction and processing of raw materials and in the manufacture of products.

Research areas, covered by the field of non-ferrous metallurgy, are concerned with the materials engineering and recycling of light alloys, primary metallurgy and recycling of technology metals and ferrous alloys as well as the recycling of industrial by-products. Other areas of specialisation cover hydrogen, both the generation and use in metallurgy, and the recycling of lithium-ion batteries.

Raw material analysis: Investigation of the suitability of the different types of raw materials for processing. Development and optimisation of processes for individual types of raw material. Development of new and improved physical separation and comminution processes, especially within the fine and very fine grain range. Magnetising roasting of carbonate iron ores. Interface-controlled processing methods: Electro separation and flotation, functional mineral processing. Sampling and product flow equalisation of bulk materials as a basis for process and quality assessment.

Under the slogan: “From raw material to finished component", the primary aims of our research are the development of methodological skills, the mastering of industrial requirements and the contribution to solving social challenges. Main topics: elastomer and thermoset technology, additive manufacturing of polymers, polymers in (micro)electronics, hybrid structures, Big Data and cyber-physical systems in the processing environment, polymers used for energy generation and storage, functionalisation of polymers, bio-based polymers, polymers in medicine and the circular economy.

The area of Green Tech and resource efficiency encompasses relevant topics such as geothermal energy and energy recovery as well as simulations for production data management and greater efficiency in production. Furthermore, in the field of Decarbonization and Energy Transition, research is being conducted on underground hydrogen storage, large-scale storage for renewable energy and geological CO2 storage.

Research Topics:
- Parallel and distributed systems
- Cloud computing and simulation
- High-performance computing
- Performance analysis and prediction
- Resource management and scheduling
- Multi-objective optimisation
- Programming and runtime environments
- Compiler technology
- Energy efficiency

The research theme Autonomous Wireless Sensors and Internet of Things includes:
- Principles of energy-efficient measurement and energy-efficient signal processing
- Energy harvesting
- Wireless sensor communication
- Specifications of electronic devices

- Interference dynamics in wireless networks
- Cooperative relaying in wireless networks
- Self organising synchronisation
- Multi-drone systems: Communications and coordination
- Coordinated multi-robot exploration

The Embedded Communication Systems (EcoSys) group conducts research in electronics and telecommunications to develop solutions in a range of application domains: Cyber physical systems, Internet of Things, smart mobility, smart grids, and smart factories.

Elmenreich and his team are working on the design, modelling and analysis of solutions for future energy applications. Major challenges, such as the transition of our energy system to a smart, low-carbon emission model, require an interdisciplinary research approach. The group, comprising engineers, computer scientists and physicists, conducts research into self-organising and complex systems and communication networks and the corresponding computational intelligence to achieve this.

The primary research interests of the Optimisation work group lie in the algorithmic treatment of NP-hard combinatorial optimisation tasks. As efficient algorithms for this class of problem have yet to be discovered and potentially do not exist at all, from a practical point of view, this raises the question of efficient approximation methods.
An application reference is given by the following example: Mobicar – Holistic mobility in Carinthia (https://mobicar.aau.at); tags: (e-)Mobility, micro public transport, optimisation, mobility survey, swarm algorithm, Last Mile, user acceptance.

Current research interests relate to the following topics:
- Governance of science, technology and innovation, including Responsible Research and Innovation
- Public communication and controversy related to science and technology
- Citizen Science and citizen participation in science and technology
- Energy system transformation
- Climate policy and climate engineering
- Convergent Technologies (Bio, Nano, Info, Neuro)
- Bioeconomy
- Sustainability

Research focus (excerpt):
- Logistics and supply chain management
- Freight and passenger transport hubs
- Capacity and flexibility research
- Interface management
- Cost management and financial control in production and logistics
- e-business in industrial companies
- Sustainable development
- Humanitarian logistics
- Industry 4.0
- Environmental management
- Circular economy

Research Topics: Relationships between society and nature with a focus on system theories, self-organisation and complexity
- Self-organising natural systems
- Global environmental change & climate change, including adaptation to climate change in the context of the sustainable development goals (SDGs)
- Sustainability
- Natural hazards and risks
- Theoretical Geomorphology

eGrid Monitoring & Analytics, e-Alternatives in H2 PV Multi Power, Battery R&D & Analytics, ePowertrain & Hybrids in Structures & Technology, Modern Industrial Automation & Safety & CMS & R&D, Industrial Measurement Technologies & Methods & Multidisciplinary Measurement Assistance in ET MB Civil Engineering, Overall High Technology Correspondence & Coordination

Biodiversity research is embedded within the remit of the UNESCO Chair on Sustainable Management of Conservation Areas. As part of the global network of UNESCO Chairs, we offer excellent research and stimulating learning opportunities, for conservation in the 21st century, to empower individuals, institutions and societies to face future challenges in the management of conservation areas. The focus is on barcoding and environmental DNA, biodiversity monitoring, conservation technologies, data science, ecosystem research, ecosystem restoration, spatial modelling, management of protected areas and vegetation ecology.

The SIENA research group conducts research in the following fields:
- High-resolution environmental monitoring with UAS (Unmanned Aerial Systems) and various sensors
- Automated risk assessment of UAS missions (Ground, Air & Weather Risk)
- Multiscale Remote Sensing & Change Detection
- Use of machine learning / AI to recognise individual objects and patterns
- Application areas: Animal behaviour and animal recognition; precision viticulture; Biodiversity & Grassland Pasture Management; Damage documentation of natural hazards; Air Traffic Management for Drones (UTM); Innovative methods for aquatic research (bathymetry in shallow water areas and non-invasive measurement of surface flow patterns in the field of ​​fish ladders)

Design reviews, virtual training and digital assistance.
The geometric basis of a digital twin is computer-aided design (CAD). CAD is a part of the so-called CAx technologies, which also include computer-aided manufacturing (CAM). CAx is used in almost all branches of technology and enables virtual design, simulation and production planning, etc.

An evolution of CAD is design automation: the combination of design, optimisation, simulation and artificial intelligence.
Development of solutions for questions related to industrial optimisation issues for improving the utilisation of resources and materials.
Development of solutions for fast and accurate optical quality control in industrial manufacturing using AI methods.
R&D in the field of machine learning for practical problems

The primary research at Lakeside Labs is in complex networked cyber-physical systems. Decentralised methods based on self-organisation (swarm intelligence) are deployed for coordination of such systems. These methods can then be used, for example, in wireless sensor networks for energy and condition monitoring, for optimisation of resources in industry, logistics and mobility, as well as for multi-robot or multi-drone systems, such as inspection tasks.
Swarms of drones and robots, for example with inspection tasks.
Robust and reliable communication methods. 5G, UWB, LORA wireless communication technologies are deployed, for example, for sensor networks for energy and condition monitoring.

The aim of research into MtM (More-than-Moore) technologies at SAL is to reduce complexity and to miniaturise and increase the efficiency of components. SAL is based in Villach and encompasses the entire research value chain for combination with advanced manufacturing technology.
Research Priorities:
- Photonic MEMS
- Piezo MEMS
- Magnetic sensor systems
- Sustainable sensors
- Applicative packaging

Photonic Systems focuses on advancing the multidisciplinary research and development of optical, optoelectronic and mechanical components using a coordinated and holistic approach.

Power electronic systems along the entire EBS value chain, from design and component characterisation to hardware.

Research Priorities:
- Highly efficient power converters & inverters
- Emerging control engineering theory
- Multiphysics simulation
- Power system health monitoring

Research expertise:

- Machine learning techniques, especially reinforcement learning
- Computer vision algorithms, object detection and tracking
- Time series data analysis, statistical evaluations, virtual sensing and anomaly detection
- Fog and edge computing, distributed systems, distributed microservice architectures

Within this area of ​​expertise, we develop, validate and apply innovative simulation tools that are used in the bioenergy industry for the development and optimisation of new plant technologies. BEST has many years of experience in the areas of CFD modelling and implementation of reaction kinetic and thermodynamic simulations. These modelling techniques form the basis for step-by-step and continuous development of advanced multi-dimensional models, with the ultimate goal of driving through implementation of the virtual biomass conversion plant.
The development of modelling keeps up with industrial demand, currently taking into account the following issues:
- Thermal conversion of solid biomass
- Ash related problems
- Gas phase reactions and emissions
- Custom software development
In addition, BEST has many years of experience in using models to support technology developments and plant optimisation. This research work is conducted in close cooperation with the other departments at the centre and with corporate partners. This ensures that simulations are as goal-orientated as possible and that the results can be used for effective and practical implementation.

The overarching goal of this specific area of competence is to aid the transition of our energy and resource system to an efficient, sustainable and cross-sectoral system through advanced control and automation technology. With the help of intelligent controls, we want to achieve flexible and efficient operation and optimum interaction between the various systems, technologies and sectors. Through holistic consideration of all control levels (component, technology/plant, system level), and in particular the interfaces between the levels, flexible and efficient operation of the overall system should be enabled.
To achieve a broad area of impact of the methods developed, we use a two-pronged approach; on the one hand methodical use of mathematical models for the individual components and systems; on the other hand, deliberate consideration of the entire product development chain, from the first phenomenological investigations and the development of basic methods and concepts to demonstration systems and market launch by our corporate partners.

Our competencies: 1) Mathematical modelling, 2) Numerical simulation, 3) Methods for online estimation of non-measurable variables, 4) Model-based control of components, technologies/plants and systems, 5) Higher level strategies for operational optimisation, 6) Modular, cross-sector, optimisation-based energy and resource management
Fields of activity: 1) Thermochemical biomass conversion: combustion and gasification, fixed bed and fluidised bed reactors, 2) Biotechnological biomass conversion, 3) Syntheses, 4) Thermal engineering: solar thermal energy (and long-term storage), heat pumps, heating networks (general hydraulic heat distribution systems), district heating plants, SIL/HIL development environments for heat generators, 5) Large-scale production processes

Through the experience of our qualified employees and modern technical equipment, we support our partners with a wide range of analytical methods. Cooperation with scientific partners enables us to use external resources where appropriate.
For questions that arise during ongoing research, we jointly develop project-specific analysis strategies and solutions for metrological issues.
Our work focuses on the following areas:
- Materials (fuel analysis, fuel and carbon design, catalysts)
- Processes (biomass conditioning, thermal conversion processes, gas cleaning)
- Added value through fractional use of biomass
Starting with a sample of a few mg, we can determine the composition and material properties and thus predict both suitability for and possible problems in technical application. Regular participation in laboratory comparison tests ensure the efficiency of our laboratory and guarantee the correctness of our analysis results. Through international cooperation, we create a consistent database of current technology developments and simulation work. Data and experience are used in the creation of international standards for biogenic raw materials and in the development of a comprehensive biomass and ash database. We combine experimental approaches in the fields of analytics, materials science and process technology with the latest simulation and control technology, and aim to make a lasting contribution to solutions for regenerative energy systems and innovation in a bio-based economy. Through our work, we support industrial partners in all phases of value creation within the framework of contract research.

Research on generation, purification, compression, storage, distribution and delivery technologies for optimum configuration of hydrogen infrastructure and subsequent systemic integration in industry and the energy sector

New bio-based materials for the building materials industry; development of bio-based/biodegradable soil sealing.
Development of repairable and recyclable composite materials; development of recyclable photopolymers; development of reversible and re-attachable adhesives.

The Combustion & Fuels area conducts applied R&D on methodology for both single-cylinder research engines and multi-cylinder engines and therefore plays a key role in shaping the large engine of the future.

Low-emission and efficient combustion processes. Very high-performance engine concepts.
System requirements and evaluation of new technology modules. Combustion process design for future fuels and waste recycling.

The Robust Engine Solution area is primarily concerned with the reliability and longevity of engine systems and, in addition to robust engine components, it also develops highly innovative monitoring tools.

Individual components and systems optimised for wear and deposits. Investigation and evaluation of highly stressed engine components. Development of sensors and CBM applications. Optimisation of lubrication for effective engine operation.

The Digital Engine area is concerned with all aspects of digital technology that can contribute to increasing the performance and robustness of large engines.

Development of advanced sensors. Condition Monitoring & Condition Based Maintenance. Intelligent control strategies. Secure data transmission and data storage architectures.

The overall research goal of the S area is to produce environmentally friendly system solutions for the energy and transport sector through optimum integration of all subsystems.

Effective and durable catalyst technology. Exhaust after-treatment system integration. Energy efficient system solutions. CO2-neutral power generation and transport systems.

At LEC, the Simulation & Validation area is responsible for basic research and provides cross-domain tools for research work in the other areas.

Simulation of ignition, combustion and emission formation under stationary and transient conditions. Combination of physically-based and data-driven modelling approaches. Models and methods for the analysis and plausibility check of measurement data. Comprehensive modelling of energy and transport systems using multidisciplinary simulation methods.

The LEC HybTec COMET module combines complementary technologies into hybrid approaches in order to derive completely new concepts for optimising energy and transport systems that meet the challenges of the future.

Hybrid simulation methods to predict stochastic phenomena in combustion engines. Optimisation of overall systems that combine sources of renewable energy, energy converters, new types of energy carriers and energy storage. Tribological simulation of the piston/ring/liner system to predict friction, wear and lubricating oil consumption. Improving the wear resistance of spark plug electrodes by coating them with innovative hybrid metal-ceramic materials.

In the Materials division, we conduct development and characterisation of materials for products that are more durable (more sustainable) and more efficient (saving resources) and enable new products. The areas of application extend from production tools to new materials, from the railway (mobility) to the aviation sector, and in hydrogen storage technology.

There is large potential for reducing CO2 and other emissions in the manufacture of metallic materials. For example, we develop software-supported solutions for adaptive production of high-quality lightweight steel and electrical sheets using recycled material. To do this, we create digital twins of the production chain for metallic long and flat products and piece parts. In addition, we investigate the energy efficiency of the individual manufacturing processes.
A further topic is the substitution of critical raw materials. We have systematic workflows and extensive databases that allow us to determine more environmentally friendly materials, with effective performance, in a quick and timely manner. The performance of new sustainable material substitutes is tested directly in our laboratories.

We develop new materials for storing and transporting compressed hydrogen and liquid hydrogen as well as their derived synthetic fuels. In addition, we investigate the safe use and engineering of existing and new infrastructure for hydrogen transport and storage. We offer experimental and computational options for studying the interaction of hydrogen with materials and develop design software for hydrogen applications.

MCL is the materials research institute for the railway sector in Austria. We are predominantly involved with metallic materials for rail infrastructure and bogie assemblies.
In the automotive sector, we develop material-based solutions for corrosion-protected lightweight construction as well as the corresponding manufacturing processes and evaluation methods. In the e-mobility sector, we are developing innovations that will increase the efficiency of electric motors and enable efficient storage of electricity.
In the aviation sector, our focus is on material and manufacturing solutions for components in low CO2 and CO2-free propulsion systems.

We develop software and the related basic principles and models of materials to drive forward innovation in low-emission and sustainable materials and in manufacturing processes and products. Our approach combines the basic principles of physics with sensor data, using artificial intelligence and primarily hybrid, semi-parametric digital shadows and twins.

We conduct research into functional materials that will be used in energy self-sufficient applications (swarms of sensors, etc.). This even includes energy-saving and environmentally friendly production during process development. Innovative material design for battery applications is a further topic of research.
In order to be able to evaluate these novel material systems, appropriate analysis methods must be developed that specifically address the correlation between structure and functionality.

Investigation is being conducted by acib into depleted natural gas deposits; whether the long-term storage of hydrogen is possible there, and whether microorganisms are present that are able to convert H2 (by consuming CO2) into methane (CH4), which can then be fed into the existing natural gas network as Green Gas.

acib develops enzymes for the production of the latest generation of biofuels. For efficient and cost-effective processes, bio-molecules that are difficult to digest (e.g., wood waste, straw, etc.), in particular, still pose a challenge. This is where the latest enzymes from acib provide support for industry.
acib is also developing enzymes for the mobility of the future, including: enzymes for digesting insect remains on aircraft wings or car windows; enzymes for car/train/airplane seats that have an antimicrobial effect; and enzymes for vehicle interiors that remove pollutants and/or break down malodourous substances.

acib has developed enzymes that are able to modify the properties (e.g., printability) of various types of plastics (including PET, PU, ​​polyester, polyamide, etc.) or to break down plastics into their original monomers (recycling). These enzymes can also be used to break down microplastic particles.
acib develops technologies to break down different types of (mixed) textiles with the aid of enzymes.
This enables the break down, for example, of cellulose (cotton, lyocell, etc.) or plastic fibres (polyester, polyamide, etc.) for further use. In addition, this allows recovery of high-cost specialised molecules (such as the flame retardant in special fire-fighting garments).

A bio-adhesive, produced from lignin, is being developed by acib that allows sustainable bonding of a variety of materials (wood, leather, textiles). Further novel ideas from acib include enzymatic dyeing to naturally enhance different shades anchored in timber, or the production of a transparent, enzymatic fireproof coating for wood.
acib is also working on new materials, such as bioplastics and is able to conduct biodegradability studies for businesses where interest arises. This allows assessment of their biological products under varying conditions, e.g., anaerobic (biogas plant), aquatic (rivers/sea), etc., and whether they are biodegradable.

acib can help realise new value chains, whereby waste and raw materials, which are readily and cheaply available, are converted into higher-value commodities using enzymes and/or microorganisms, such as: sugar to glycosides for the food, cosmetics and plastics industries or; fatty acids to tertiary alcohols for the cosmetics and fragrances sector.
acib develops solutions that use the greenhouse gas CO2 for the production of biomolecules. This can be via microbial electrolysis cells, which use electricity for direct conversion of CO2 into alcohols, or microbial systems, which reduce CO2 with the aid of H2 to produce proteins for feed and foodstuffs, bioplastics or other biomolecules.
acib develops bioprocess technologies for efficient production and purification of highly complex biomolecules (from biotherapeutics to vaccines, as well as a wide range of antibodies and proteins). acib has excellent expertise in the use of bioresources (enzymes and/or microorganisms) for the manufacture of various fine chemicals; dyes/fragrances/flavourings and active pharmaceutical ingredients, etc.

With a workforce of 300, Virtual Vehicle Research GmbH is Europe's largest research centre for virtual vehicle development. Primary research is focused on linking numerical simulations, SW-defined functions and hardware tests, which leads on to a powerful, HW-SW, whole system design and consequently to a reduction in development and operating costs. The emphasis on close-to-industry, practical research gives VIRTUAL VEHICLE powerful leverage as an innovation catalyst for vehicle technologies of the future.

Connected and automated vehicles are one of the most important innovation drivers in the automotive industry. Research at VIRTUAL VEHICLE includes development, validation, testing and operation of fail-safe automated driving architectures and ensures a further increase in vehicle safety, as well as the safe, on-road coexistence of highly automated, networked vehicles with conventional vehicles. Automated driving, connected vehicles and the Internet of Things (IoT) add new layers of security requirements. Experts at VIRTUAL VEHICLE are working on new solutions to meet these challenges, in particular, taking into account trustworthiness and social approval to increase market acceptance.

The requirement to reduce CO2 emissions is forcing the automotive industry to focus on electrification (battery, hybrid), lightweight construction, advanced energy management systems and thermal control strategies. Experts at VIRTUAL VEHICLE are investigating the influence of electrification, lightweight construction and energy management on the individual perception of comfort in the vehicle. The result is technology innovation that can optimise the energy consumption of a vehicle, while taking into account the comfort aspects of the passengers.
As a centre of excellence, research at VIRTUAL VEHICLE also includes the simulation and digitisation of railway systems (system vehicle/track interaction, monitoring & diagnostic algorithms for vehicle and track components, multi-objective optimisation, etc.).

The K1-MET Research Area 1 is primarily involved in further development and upscaling of treatment processes for residues and recycled materials, such as slag and dust, with the aim of recovering valuable materials and closing material cycles. A further aspect of investigation is the characterisation and the efficient use of raw materials for metallurgical production processes.

Added to this is the development of methods for material data measurement of metallurgical slag systems.

Further development of metallurgical core processes for increased efficiency and product quality. This combines the former Areas 2 (high-temperature metallurgy) and 3 (process and energy optimisation), from the first funding phase, with various aspects of innovation and is concerned with applications and processes in ferrous and non-ferrous metallurgy. Within the scope of iron and steel metallurgy, both primary and secondary metallurgy are considered, starting with the LD process for crude steel production, through to continuous casting and hot rolling, as well as steel refining, i.e., removal of non-metallic inclusions using electroslag remelting (ESR). Within the scope of non-ferrous metallurgy, the focus is on alternative reducing agents and process efficiency in copper refining.

We are a leading European research institute for wood and renewable raw materials. Our core competencies lie in materials research and process technology along the entire value chain - from the raw materials to the finished product. With the combined expertise of over 130 highly qualified researchers, this includes the development of basic principles and methodologies, and conducting applied research at the interface between science and business to enable efficient management of resources in the closed-loop bioeconomy.

As one of Europe's leading research centres for data-driven artificial intelligence, we see it as our mission to help companies create value from data. Our research areas include data management, data security, data analytics, visualisation and business aspects of data. We apply our research findings in selected economic ecosystems, which include energy, environment and sustainability. We also provide data-based services to companies, from data value assessment to business model development and auditing of data-based AI systems.