Marion Scholz is a Senior Lecturer at the Department of Business Informatics, Technische Universität Wien (TU Wien). She specializes in software modeling education, object-oriented systems, and the application of educational technologies. Her research focuses on enhancing teaching methods through digital tools, such as UML-based modeling and multimedia learning resources. She is actively involved in courses like Foundations of Information Systems , Software Engineering , and Research Methods , emphasizing practical and innovative approaches to computer science education. Her work includes co-authoring textbooks on UML and exploring modern tools for modeling education. Scholz contributes to the Business Informatics Group at TU Wien, collaborating on projects related to educational technology and software engineering.
Prof. Dr.techn. Davide Ceneda is a researcher at TU Wien, affiliated with the Visual Analytics Research Group (E193-07). His work focuses on advancing guidance systems and methodologies within visual analytics, emphasizing user-centered design and mixed-initiative interactions. He holds a doctoral degree in guidance-enriched visual analytics (2020). Research Interests: Visual analytics, guidance design, human-computer interaction, temporal data visualization, and user-assisted systems. His recent studies explore trust models in AI-driven guidance, task-driven frameworks, and automated assistance mechanisms. Publications: Ceneda’s recent work includes papers on guidance-enhanced temporal networks (TimeLighting), dual evaluation methodologies, and the Lotse framework. His research highlights a consistent focus on improving user experience through structured guidance. Collaborations: Works closely with experts like Silvia Miksch and Alessio Arleo. Co-developed COVIs for pandemic data analysis and contributed to the Circle of Thrones radial infographic project. Awards: No specific awards mentioned, but publications reflect high-impact contributions to the field.
Prof. Silvia Miksch is a full professor in the Department of Visual Analytics at TU Wien. Her research focuses on visual analytics, time-oriented data visualization, and human-computer interaction. She leads projects in cultural heritage analysis, fraud detection, and pandemic data visualization. Her work bridges computer science with digital humanities, emphasizing user-centric design and uncertainty modeling. Key contributions include guidance systems for VA environments and network visualization frameworks for art history. Affiliations: TU Wien (since 2000+) Research Labs: Network Lab, Visual Analytics Research Group Recent projects explore temporal patterns in artist exhibitions, parameter space exploration, and pandemic data communication. She has advised over 20 PhD/Master’s students, many contributing to VA systems like COVIS and NEVA. Awarded the VGTC Visualization Technical Achievement Award (2024) for foundational work in temporal visualization. Active in IEEE VAST and serves on journal editorial boards. Her labs develop open-source tools for interactive data exploration.
Wolfgang Jonas Weitzl is a Professor of Digital Marketing at the University of Applied Sciences Upper Austria, School of Business and Management, Campus Steyr. He also serves as a Private Lecturer at the University of Vienna and holds research fellow positions at the University of Vienna's Department of Communication and WU Vienna's Department of Marketing. His work focuses on customer complaining behaviors, service recovery in digital contexts, and brand engagement, combining empirical research with practical relevance. Education: PhD in Management (2014), Master's (2008), and Bachelor's (2008) in Business Administration from the University of Vienna. Research Interests: Wolfgang’s research bridges relationship management, service marketing, and social psychology. He investigates how digital platforms influence customer complaints and recovery strategies, emphasizing brand-benevolent vs. brand-invasive engagement. His work addresses practical challenges like online complaint resolution and consumer revenge behaviors. Awards: Notable recognitions include the 2019 AMA Best Paper Award for work on online complainants’ desires and the 2016 Emerald Professional Impact Award. His research has been published in journals like the Journal of Business Research and Computers in Human Behavior . Collaborations & Activities: Active in academic networks, Wolfgang presents at conferences worldwide and reviews for top journals. He leads the Research Center Steyr DBx - Digital Business Institute and has supervised 11 academic works.
Erich Schönbächler is a full-time university lecturer (100%) at the University of Teacher Education Vienna, working within the Competence Center MINT and Digitality (K:MID), specifically in the Department for Media Education, Information Technology Education and Digitality. He coordinates the MEDIA Lab and collaborates with the Education Innovation Studio (EIS). His roles focus on digital media education in elementary, primary, and secondary schools, with expertise in hybrid learning environments and mobile learning. Education: Mechanical drafting apprenticeship → BA in Primary Education (Media/IT specialization, Central Switzerland UTE, 2012) → Master's in Media Game Pedagogy (Danube U, Krems) and Master of Education (Vienna UTE). Teaching career: Viennese compulsory schools (2016–2021), followed by part-time work at the ZLI (Center for Learning Technology and Innovation) from 2016–2021 before transitioning full-time in 2021. Research interests include digital game-based learning, eLearning, and innovative hybrid teaching models. He has led projects like the Mobile Learning Study (Vienna) and contributed to international initiatives such as the Eye-Tracking collaboration with Masaryk University. Active in events like the eBazar (digital education showcase) and symposia on future learning.
Magdalena Boucher is an Assistant Professor in Creative Computing (BA) and Media Technology (BA) at the Department of Media and Digital Technologies, University of Applied Sciences St. Pölten. She holds a Master's degree in Digital Media Technologies and a Bachelor's in Media Technology from the same institution. Her research focuses on data visualization education , interactive media , and creative computing . She designs playful learning activities like the Comic Construction Kit and VisToon to enhance visualization literacy through data comics. Projects such as Vis4Schools and Dataskop address educational technology and data economy challenges. Her work integrates gamification, multimedia storytelling, and mobile visualization tools to foster engagement in technical education. She also explores AI-driven audiovisual documentation and user-centered interface design for media retrieval systems. Her recent publications emphasize playful learning strategies , data visualization empowerment , and cross-disciplinary educational frameworks . She actively contributes to workshops like EduVis and IEEE VIS to advance visualization education standards.
Michael Dittenbach is a researcher at TU Wien's Institute of Software Technology and Interactive Systems (E188). He contributes to interdisciplinary work combining machine learning, computer vision, and tourism informatics. His career spans over 15 years of publications in semantic web technologies, data analytics, and 3D virtual environments. Current research focuses on computer vision applications for cultural heritage, tourism recommender systems, and self-organizing map visualization Key projects include Media Square, SOIRE, and Web 3D environments Collaborates extensively with Helmut Berger, Andreas Rauber, and Robert Sablatnig His recent work (2022) explores computer vision techniques for digital library preservation, while earlier studies (2005-2015) focused on tourism informatics, data analytics frameworks, and semantic web applications. Publications demonstrate a consistent trajectory toward integrating machine learning with user-centric digital systems. As part of TU Wien's research infrastructure, he contributes to technical reports, conference proceedings, and multimedia system development without explicit mentions of scientific awards in available records.
Barbara Göbl is a Professor at the University of Vienna's Faculty of Computer Science, affiliated with the Department for Teacher Education and the Research Group Cooperative Systems. She specializes in serious game design, digital literacy, and computational empowerment in education. Her work bridges computer science, anthropology, and pedagogy, with a focus on fostering future competencies through game-based learning. Key projects include "Serious Game Changers" (2022-2024) and "We:Design" (2022-2023), which explore participatory approaches to digital education. Her research addresses adolescent social media behavior, interdisciplinary collaboration in game design, and curriculum integration of digital skills. She has published extensively on topics like game accessibility, computational literacy, and gender stereotypes in STEM. Recent work includes analyzing drifting phenomena in anthropology-computer science collaborations and advocating for inclusive digital education frameworks. Over 35 publications since 2015 reflect her cross-disciplinary impact. Education: Dipl.-Ing. (Computer Science), Dr.techn. (Technical Doctorate) Affiliations: Centre for Teacher Education, Research Group Cooperative Systems Research interests emphasize participatory design methodologies, serious game evaluation, and bridging formal education with emerging digital tools. Projects like OutSmart! and StreamIT! demonstrate her commitment to youth empowerment through creative educational technologies. She actively contributes to policy discussions on digital competencies in teacher training and has presented at international conferences on topics ranging from game aesthetics to social media literacy.
Peter Reichl is a Professor in the Faculty of Computer Science, leading the Research Group Cooperative Systems. His work spans interdisciplinary research in Human-Computer Interaction, IoT systems, and Digital Ethics. He actively contributes to the UN Sustainable Development Goals through innovative technology solutions. Key projects include the European Distributed Data Infrastructure for Energy, COMPASS, and symbIoTe. Research interests include mobile computing, tangible interfaces, quantum computing education, and ethical implications of digital transformation. Over 134 publications since 2008 reflect his work in music technology, IoT frameworks, and socio-technical systems analysis. Recent articles highlight creative tech solutions like LEGO-based music sequencers and philosophical explorations of Digital Humanism. He has organized major events like the Dagstuhl Workshop on Quality of Experience (QoE Vadis?) and contributed to policy discussions on digital democracy in Austria. Key Projects: symbIoTe (2016-2018), COMPASS (IoT solutions), European Energy Data Infrastructure (2023-2025) Notable Activities: Panellist on Digital Transformation Ethics (2024), Poster Presenter for Muco app (2022) Labs/Teams: Research Group Cooperative Systems focuses on IoT interoperability and human-centered tech design.
Peter Judmaier is a Professor and Deputy Academic Director of Media Technology (BA) at the Department of Media and Digital Technologies, Institute of Creative/Media/Technologies at Fachhochschule St. Pölten. He teaches across multiple programs including Media Technology (BA), Digital Media Technologies (MA), Digital Healthcare (MA), Creative Computing (BA), Smart Engineering (BA), Digital Design (MA), Interactive Technologies (MA), and Digital Media Production (MA). Dr. Judmaier's research focuses on Human-Computer Interaction, Usability Engineering, Serious Games, Media Technology, Digital Media, and User Experience Design. His work spans diverse applications from air traffic control systems to social inclusion platforms for elderly populations. He has extensive experience in developing and evaluating interactive systems, with particular expertise in gamification, accessibility, and user-centered design approaches. His recent publications demonstrate a strong trend toward AI applications, assistive technologies, and sustainable mobility solutions. He has been particularly active in developing platforms for air traffic control visualization, digital tools for social inclusion, and gamified approaches to waste management and sustainable behavior, showing consistent innovation in applying interactive technologies to solve real-world problems across multiple domains. Dr. Judmaier has led numerous research projects including DIHOST 2.0, Tovies, FairMedia, KüKeN, LAMORE, comfort:zone, BündelHeinz, IoT4LAC, LEWELJU, CLUE, CargoRiders series, TailoredMedia, Homeless, Smart Companion, and BRELOMATE, addressing contemporary challenges in digital media and technology. He has supervised student projects through initiatives like BRELOMATE (a platform against social isolation for elderly people), Smart Companion (an AI assistant for autonomous living), and various empowerment games. His research has been supported by grants focusing on innovative digital solutions for societal challenges, particularly in the areas of sustainable mobility, healthcare, and social inclusion. Dr. Judmaier leads research in interactive media technologies, with laboratory work focusing on virtual reality, augmented reality, multi-touch interfaces, and practical applications of emerging technologies for real-world problems across transportation, healthcare, and environmental domains.
Sylke Hilberg is an Associate Professor at the Paris Lodron University of Salzburg, specializing in environmental and biodiversity research. She actively contributes to interdisciplinary hydrogeological studies in alpine regions, focusing on coal mine drainage and climate change impacts. Her work spans academic research, educational innovation, and environmental consultancy. Hydrogeology of alpine lakes and post-mining systems Development of digital learning tools for geological education Environmental impact assessment of mining activities Isotopic and geochemical analysis of water systems Her recent publications address topics like reactive mass transport in coal mines, hydrochemical characterization of alpine springs, and innovative educational methodologies. She has served as Principal Investigator in multiple projects including AlpLake-Change and Grubenwässer der Altbergbaue. Scientific Awards: Comenius EduMedia Siegel (2013) for educational program 'Zwischen Regenwolke und Wasserhahn' Hilberg participates in editorial work (e.g., reviewing for Hydrology and Water journals) and science communication initiatives. She integrates geological education with environmental research through projects like 'System Veder im Praxistest' and 'Geologie begreifen.'
Tao Dacheng is a Professor of Computer Science at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) since 2010, also serving as an ARC Future Fellow since 2013. His research focuses on deep learning, multimedia, applied statistics, neural networks, computer vision, and data mining. He has published over 400 papers in top journals and conferences, earning multiple best paper awards, including the ICDM 10 Year Highest Impact Paper Award (2014). Affiliations: Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology (implied by department). Research Contributions: His work bridges applied mathematics and data analytics, with applications in image processing, video surveillance, and geoinformatics. He has authored a monograph and contributed to 5 books. Awards & Honors: Elected Fellow of IEEE, OSA, IAPR, SPIE, IET, and BCS. Recipient of the 2015 Australian Scopus-Eureka Prize, ACS Gold Disruptor Award, and UTS Vice-Chancellor’s Medal. Professional Activities: Editor of 10+ journals (including 7 IEEE Transactions), guest editor of 10+ special issues. Delivered 50+ research talks, chaired 60+ conferences, and served on 150+ conference committees and 60+ journal review boards.
Jan Steinbrener is an Associate Professor at the University of Klagenfurt's Institute for Intelligent System Technologies and serves as Vice Rector for Research and International Affairs, leading the Research Council. His roles include overseeing research strategy, international collaborations, and faculty research activities. Research Interests: Steinbrener focuses on robotics, artificial intelligence, and autonomous systems. His work emphasizes sensor systems, UAV navigation, and embedded AI applications. Projects include drone-based wind turbine inspection and AI-driven control systems for industrial robotics. Grants & Projects: He leads initiatives funded by the Austrian Research Promotion Agency (FFG), including 'Wind Turbine Blade Inspection Using Multimedia Drones' and 'Embedded AI - Shaping the Future of Power Electronics.' Collaborative projects with Carinthian Economic Development Fund and Infineon Technologies highlight his industry-academia partnerships. Academic Contributions: Steinbrener's research spans robotics, control systems, and sensor technology. Key publications include studies on UAV navigation algorithms, light-field imaging, and reinforcement learning applications in robotics.
Ignacio Baltazar Perez Messina is a PreDoc Researcher and Ph.D. candidate at Vienna University of Technology's Centre for Visual Analytics Science and Technology (CVAST) within the Faculty of Informatics. His work focuses on guidance mechanisms in mixed-initiative visual analytics systems, with emphasis on progressive analysis and user interaction design. His research interests span Visual Analytics , Data Visualization , and Human-Computer Interaction , with specific expertise in task-driven guidance methodologies, persistent user-generated artifacts, and spatio-temporal data analysis. Current projects include DoRIAH (2020–2024), GuidedVA (2020–2025), and KnoVA (2018–2022), with recent expansion into typographical forensics through a 2025 research internship at Japan's National Institute of Informatics. Analysis of his publication record reveals a consistent trajectory in advancing guidance frameworks for visual analytics, evolving from foundational typologies (2022) to task-driven methodologies (2023-2024) and persistent interaction models (2024-2025). His work bridges theoretical frameworks with practical applications in urban mobility, remote sensing, and creative data representation. Honourable Mention at EuroVA 2023 His research is supported through multiple EU-funded projects including DoRIAH (Domain-adaptive Remote Sensing Image Analysis with Human-in-the-loop) and GuidedVA. Perez Messina actively participates in interdisciplinary collaborations, having completed artistic residencies at Bibliothek Andreas Züst (Switzerland) and Creartathon (Paris), where he integrates visualization research with media art practice through exhibitions at VISAP and IEEE VIS events. He maintains active laboratory work at CVAST, where his research on progressive guidance systems continues to evolve through collaborations with international partners including UCLab at FH Potsdam and the National Institute of Informatics in Tokyo.
Markus Schranz is an External Lecturer in the Information Systems Engineering department at TU Wien. His expertise focuses on multimedia systems, news distribution networks, and collaborative network architectures. He has contributed to foundational works on pan-European news distribution systems and multimedia content management. He teaches the course Web Application Engineering & Access Management (2024W). His research emphasizes scalable media distribution, cross-platform adaptation, and collaborative network design. While no awards are explicitly listed, his work reflects significant contributions to media infrastructure engineering. His publications span technical encyclopedias and conference proceedings, addressing both theoretical frameworks and practical implementations in multimedia news systems.
