Sebastian Heidebrecht

Dr. Sebastian Heidebrecht is a University Assistant and Postdoctoral Researcher at the Centre for European Integration Research (EIF) within the University of Vienna’s Department of Political Science. His research focuses on EU policies for the digital age, economic governance, and the political role of institutions like the European Central Bank (ECB). He holds a Ph.D. from the University of Duisburg-Essen and has taught at multiple institutions including the Vienna School of International Studies and Heinrich-Heine University Düsseldorf.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Political Science, University of Duisburg-Essen (2019)
• Studies at University of Jena and Sciences Po Paris
• Guest researcher at Max-Planck Sciences Po Centre and German Institute for International and Security Affairs

Research Interests: Explores how actors and institutions shape Europe’s digital transformation, with emphasis on EU policies for the digital single market, platform work regulation, and the ECB’s evolving role in economic governance. His work bridges theoretical insights with policy analysis, particularly in post-crisis institutional reforms and digital sovereignty debates.

Teaching & Supervision: Taught over 30 courses on EU economics, digital policies, and monetary governance. Supervised 20+ bachelor’s theses and 15+ master’s theses, currently advising students on EU digital and monetary policy topics.

Public Engagement: Regular contributor to media discussions on EU digital policies and economic governance. Organized conferences like the 2017 workshop on the ECB’s political role, and participates in outreach programs for policymakers and diplomats through the EIF and Diplomatic Academy of Vienna.

Labs/Teams: Core member of the EIF, co-convener of the UACES EU Digital Governance Network (2025–), and collaborates with institutions like Princeton University and the German Institute for International and Security Affairs.