Rudolf Freund is a retired Professor at the Vienna University of Technology (TU Wien), affiliated with the Department of Theory and Logic (E192-05) under the Faculty of Informatics. His research focuses on formal languages, membrane computing (P systems), theoretical computer science, and bio-inspired computational models. He has contributed extensively to areas such as infinite words, graph grammars, molecular computing, and neural networks. Freund has held roles including editor for conference proceedings (e.g., NCMA 2019) and has taught courses like Formal Language Theory and Introduction to Clinics. His work often bridges theoretical foundations with practical applications in computing systems, emphasizing formal verification and computational completeness. His research has been published in journals like Natural Computing and Theoretical Computer Science , exploring topics such as derivation modes in P systems, reactive membranes, and computational models for Boolean networks. Despite retirement, he remains active in academic activities, including organizing workshops and contributing to conferences on unconventional computing. Freund's expertise spans membrane computing variants, automata theory, and regulated rewriting systems, with a focus on advancing computational paradigms inspired by biological processes.
Ingo Feinerer serves as an Associate Professor at Vienna University of Technology's Faculty of Informatics, specifically within the Institute of Information Systems Engineering (E192-02). His research bridges theoretical computer science and practical applications in database systems, artificial intelligence, and text mining, with significant contributions to configuration management and formal methods. His educational background includes: PhD Dissertation (2007): A formal treatment of UML class diagrams as an efficient method for configuration management Diploma Thesis (2005): Formal program verification: a comparison of selected tools and their theoretical foundations Feinerer's research focuses on database theory (particularly schema mapping and dependencies), AI-driven configuration systems using integer linear programming, and text mining infrastructure development in R. His work combines theoretical rigor with practical tool development, notably through the textcat and tm packages. The integration of formal methods in software engineering remains a consistent thread throughout his publications. Analysis of his 15 most recent publications reveals strong specialization in database constraints (40%), text mining applications (30%), and software configuration systems (30%), with increasing interdisciplinary work connecting computer science to digital humanities. His notable recognition includes: INiTS Award (2007) for technology commercialization potential Feinerer has supervised doctoral research including F. I. Chertes' work on schema mapping languages and diploma theses on UML semantics and probabilistic databases. He led major research projects HINT (2012-2017) and SEE (2012-2016) focusing on database technologies and information systems. His work demonstrates consistent funding through Austrian national research programs. As a core member of the Databases and Artificial Intelligence research group, he collaborates extensively on R package development for text analysis and contributes to international workshops on theoretical aspects of software engineering.
Bernhard Kerbl is a Post-doctoral Researcher at the Computer Graphics Group (E193-02) within the Faculty of Informatics at Vienna University of Technology (TU Wien). He actively contributes to research in real-time rendering, GPU optimization, and 3D visualization. His work focuses on point cloud rendering, Gaussian splatting, and low-level graphics API development (particularly Vulkan). Core Research Areas: Real-time rendering, GPU programming, point cloud processing, 3D Gaussian splatting, task-based parallelism Projects: IVILPC (2023–2026), ACD (2020–2028), EVOCATION (2018–2022) Key Contributions: Developed real-time rendering techniques for massive datasets, pioneered GPU-based scene streaming architectures, and created novel methods for visual error prediction using machine learning. His work on Vulkan transition in academia received recognition, and he maintains active collaborations in GPU education. Scientific Achievements: Best Paper Award at EGPGV 2024 for "Fast Rendering of Parametric Objects on Modern GPUs" Recipient of Vienna Science and Technology Fund (WWTF) support for graphics research Technical Expertise: Specializes in CUDA, OpenGL/Vulkan APIs, and real-time systems. His work bridges academic research with practical implementations in virtual reality, augmented reality, and GPU education.
Berry Gérard is a distinguished Professor at Collège de France, holding the Chair in Algorithms, Machines, and Languages since 2012. He previously served as Director of Research at INRIA Sophia Antipolis and Chief Scientist at Esterel Technologies. His academic journey includes roles at École des Mines de Paris and École Polytechnique. Gérard specializes in models of computation, programming language design, and synchronous systems. He has contributed significantly to the development of the Esterel language for embedded systems and formal verification techniques. Education: Docteur d’Etat in Mathematics, Université Paris VII (Computer Science option), 1979 Ingénieur des Mines, Corps National des Ingénieurs des Mines, 1970 École Polytechnique, 1967 Research Interests: Focuses on computational models (e.g., lambda-calculus, synchronous concurrency), programming languages (Esterel, Hop/HipHop), circuit synthesis, and formal verification. His recent work explores diffuse programming and web orchestration. Key Awards: 2014: Médaille d'or du CNRS 2005: Member, Académie des technologies 1993: Member, Academia Europaea 1979: Bronze Medal of CNRS Professional Roles: President of the Council of Education and Research at École Polytechnique Member of the Scientific Council of IRCAM Former President of the INRIA Evaluation Committee Labs/Teams: Active in INRIA’s Indes project on diffuse programming and collaborates with IRCAM on real-time music systems.
Kevin Fox is a Professor and Joint Head of Research at the Cardiff School of Biosciences, Cardiff University (since 1995), and Deputy Chair of the Medical Research Council’s (MRC) Neuroscience & Mental Health Board (since 2008). Previously, he held positions as an Assistant Professor at Brown University (1990-1992) and the University of Minnesota (1992-1995), and was a McDonnell Fellow at Washington University School of Medicine (1987-1989). His research focuses on Neuroscience , particularly Experience-dependent plasticity in sensory systems Synaptic and cortical development Role of NMDA receptors and CaMKII in neuronal adaptation Thalamocortical organization and sensory map stability Key publication trends highlight investigations into molecular mechanisms (e.g., GluR1, PKA, CaMKII) underlying cortical plasticity, sensory deprivation effects, and comparative studies across visual and somatosensory systems. His work has been cited extensively, including 134 citations for his 1996 PNAS paper. Scientific Awards: McDonnell Fellow His contributions span synaptic physiology, developmental neurobiology, and translational neuroscience, with a focus on cortical reorganization and neurotransmitter receptor dynamics.
Adam Miklosi is a Full Professor of Ethology at the Eötvös Loránd University, serving as Head of the Department of Ethology (2006–present) and Head of the Institute of Biology (2017–present). He holds a DSc from the Hungarian Academy of Sciences and has held leadership roles in research and education. His work focuses on animal cognition, human-animal interaction, and comparative behavior analysis. Education: M.Sc. (1986), PhD (1995), DSc (2005) from Hungarian Academy of Sciences, with postdoctoral training at the University of Sussex (1998–2000). Research Interests: Ethology, animal and human cognition, behavior, and communication. His studies explore how animals perceive and interact socially, with a focus on dogs as model species. He investigates episodic memory, categorization, and social referencing in dogs, contributing to understanding cross-species cognitive parallels. Grants & Editorial Roles: Led major projects like the EU FP7 LIREC (2008–2012) and chairs the ESF Evolution of Social Cognition network. Editor-in-Chief of Biologia Futura and serves on editorial boards of Animal Cognition , BMC Neuroscience , and others. Awards: Includes the Distinguished Scholar Award (2010), Hungarian Academy Prize (2015), and election as Corresponding Member of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences (2016). Recognized for innovative research and contributions to biological education. Advisees & Labs: Though specific students are not listed, his research groups focus on comparative ethology and interdisciplinary projects in social cognition. Collaborates widely across neuroscience and behavioral science disciplines.
Olga Spevak is a Professor of Latin Linguistics at the University of Toulouse Jean Jaurès, specializing in Latin syntax, Late Latin, and the works of Isidore of Seville. She holds a Doctor of Latin degree and has held academic positions since 2002, including a prior Lectureship at the National Institute for Oriental Languages and Civilizations in Paris. Her research integrates pragmatics, syntax, and diachronic analysis, focusing on classical and medieval Latin texts. Education: Ph.D. in Latin Linguistics, Habilitation (higher doctorate), and extensive postdoctoral research in Europe. Her work bridges historical linguistics with comparative studies, particularly in syntax and grammatical evolution. Research Interests: Latin word order, nominalization processes, participle constructions, medieval grammatical traditions, and the linguistic legacy of Isidore of Seville. She has pioneered studies on legal Latin syntax and the application of modern linguistic theories to classical texts. Scientific Awards and Memberships: Member of Academia Europaea (since 2011), Société de Linguistique de Paris, and other prestigious scholarly societies. Currently serves on the International Council for Philosophy and Human Sciences (CIPSH). Key Publications: Nominalization in Latin (2022), Constituent Order in Classical Latin Prose (2010), and editions of Isidore's Etymologies. Professional Roles: Conference Manager of Societas Linguistica Europaea (2016-2022), member of the PLH CRATA research team. Labs/Teams: Active contributor to the PLH CRATA linguistic research group at the University of Toulouse, focusing on Latin historical linguistics.
Lotte Tarkka is a Professor of Folklore Studies at the University of Helsinki (2009–) and Docent of Folklore Studies (2007–). Her research focuses on Kalevala-meter poetry, vernacular imagination, intertextuality, and the cultural history of Karelian oral traditions. She leads the Master’s Programme in Cultural Heritage and chairs the Docent Committee at the Faculty of Arts, University of Helsinki. Doctor of Philosophy (2005), University of Helsinki Licentiate of Philosophy (1994), University of Helsinki Candidate of Philosophy (1989), University of Helsinki Key research interests include: Oral poetics and performance theory Mythology as cultural knowledge Genre systems in pre-modern Northeast Europe Historiography of folklore studies Cultural heritage and nationalism Her scholarly work spans projects like The Muted Muses of Oral Culture (2019–2023) and Oral Poetry, Mythic Knowledge, and Vernacular Imagination (2012–2016). Awards include the Kalevala Award (2007) and membership in the Finnish Academy of Science and Letters (2012). Supervised 15 PhD theses and co-edited journals like Studia Fennica .
Professor Eric Westhof at the University of Strasbourg is a leading expert in nucleic acid stereochemistry, RNA structural biophysics, and bioinformatics. He has developed critical computational tools for RNA modeling and crystallographic refinement, including pioneering all-atom tertiary models of catalytic RNAs validated by experimental studies. Positions: Director of CNRS Unit 'Architecture and Reactivity of RNA', Director of CNRS Institute of Molecular and Cellular Biology (IBMC), Vice-President for Research at University of Strasbourg Editorial Roles: Executive Editor of RNA and Nucleic Acids Research His research focuses on RNA sequence-structure evolution and functional dynamics. Key contributions include geometric classifications for RNA base pairs and molecular modeling of ribozymes. Scientific honors include the Jacques MONOD Prize, Structural Biochemistry Chair from Institut Universitaire de France, Fellowships from AAAS and Institute of Physics, and memberships in EMBO, Academia Europaea, and multiple national academies. Grants: Human Frontier Science Program (1997-2000, 2005-2008), European Union projects Leadership: President of RNA Society (2005), President of Société française de Biochimie (2004-2009), EMBO Publications Committee Chair
Hermann Maurer is Full Professor of Computer Science at Graz University of Technology (since 1978), with additional roles as Honorary Visiting Professor at Danube University and Honorary Research Fellow at University of Auckland (till 2012). He has held leadership positions including Dean of Computer Science (2004-2007) and Chair of Informatics Section in Academia Europaea (2007-2012). Key Institutions: Graz University of Technology, Austria-Forum, JOANNEUM RESEARCH, Academia Europaea Academic Honors: Member of Finnish Academy of Sciences, Cross of Honour for Arts and Science (Austria), multiple honorary doctorates Research Focus: Networked Interactive Digital (NID) Books, Austria-Forum (1.1M entries), hypermedia systems, anti-monopoly digital frameworks, and societal impacts of technology. He pioneered second-generation web systems and co-founded conferences like ED-MEDIA and I-KNOW. Key Trends in Publications: Recent works emphasize NID systems, interactive encyclopedias, web reliability, and the future of digital libraries. His research spans e-learning, information integration, and combating web-based plagiarism. Scientific Awards: Honorary Doctorates (St. Petersburg, Karlsruhe, Calgary) AACE Fellowship (2003) Integrata Prize (2000) Enter Prize (1999) Advising & Grants: Supervised over 400 M.Sc. and 50 Ph.D. theses. Led multimillion-dollar projects including Hyperwave AG, COSTOC, and Austria-Forum. His work on optical storage and color-graphic microcomputers (MUPID) exemplifies technological innovation.
Dipl.-Ing. Dr.techn. Carlo Corinaldesi is affiliated with TU Wien's Department of Energy Economics and Energy Efficiency within the Research Unit Energy Economics and Energy Efficiency (E370-03). His research focuses on sustainable energy systems, electromobility, and smart grid technologies. He contributes to projects addressing decentralized energy systems optimization, sector coupling, and prosumer dynamics in energy transition contexts. Key research interests include energy flexibility markets, electric vehicle integration, cost-benefit analysis of charging infrastructure, and grid stability enhancement through EVs. His work explores innovative business models for aggregated flexibility in European electricity markets and the socio-technical aspects of local energy communities. Recent publications emphasize real-time trading algorithms, portfolio optimization of end-user flexibilities, and the economic viability of residential car-sharing models. He collaborates on projects analyzing transmission congestion mitigation and market potentials for new flexibility products in continental Europe. Corinaldesi's contributions span technical reports on algorithm scalability, forecasting methodologies, and dynamic interfaces between aggregators and energy management systems. His research bridges theoretical frameworks with practical implementations in energy policy and market design.
Prof. Benedikt Stufler is a Professor of Mathematics at Technische Universität Wien's Institute of Discrete Mathematics and Geometry. His research focuses on the interplay between combinatorics and probability, particularly the analysis of random structures such as graphs, trees, and maps. He holds a Habilitation in Mathematics (2022) and a Doctorate from Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München (2015). Education: Habilitation in Mathematics, TU Wien (2022) Doctorate in Mathematics, LMU Munich (2015) Master's (Diplom-Mathematiker), LMU Munich (2013) Study abroad at Universidad de Buenos Aires (2011) Research Interests: His work combines stochastic methods with combinatorial constructions to study models of random structures. Key areas include: Limits of random structures (Gromov-Hausdorff-Prokhorov convergence) Branching processes and random maps Enumerative combinatorics and Gibbs partition models Phase transitions in weighted graphs Algorithmic sampling of combinatorial structures Recent Grants: FWF Project 'Limits of random networks' (2024–2027, €435k) Principal Investigator in SFB 'Discrete Random Structures' (2024–2028, €3.9M total) Lab/Group: Current members include postdoc Dr. Colin Desmarais and PhD students Niccolò Bosio and Philipp Beltran. He supervises master's theses in probability theory.
Markus Kuba is a Professor (FH-Professor) at FH-Technikum Wien in Vienna, Austria, where he leads the Department of Applied Mathematics and Physics. He holds a habilitation (Privatdozent) from TU Wien's Faculty of Mathematics and Geoinformation, granting him the venia docendi. He is also a teacher at HTL-Spengergasse, a higher technical institute, specializing in mathematics and computer science. His academic journey includes a PhD in Mathematics from TU Wien (2006) and a habilitation in 2013. His research focuses on theoretical computer science, analysis of algorithms, analytic combinatorics, and random structures. Notable specializations include tree structures, urn models, multiple zeta values, and SAT-problems. His work bridges combinatorial theory with practical applications in network analysis and stochastic processes. Key contributions include studies on urn models, tree growth models, and interdisciplinary projects like integrating traffic simulation tools. His publications span prestigious journals such as Theoretical Computer Science , Combinatorics, Probability and Computing , and Journal of Combinatorial Theory . Teaching spans secondary schools and universities of applied sciences since 2009, with a focus on mathematics and programming. Collaborations include co-authors from institutions worldwide, reflecting his active role in international academic networks.
Ivona Brandić is a University Professor for High Performance Computing Systems at TU Wien's Institute of Software Engineering and Interactive Systems. Born in Gradačac, Bosnia and Herzegovina, she moved to Austria in 1992 as a refugee during the Bosnian War. She earned a master's degree (2002) and doctorate (2007) in business computer science from TU Wien and completed her habilitation in applied computer science there in 2013. Her career includes roles as an assistant professor (University of Vienna, 2002–2007) and postdoctoral researcher (University of Melbourne, 2008). She transitioned to a tenure-track position at TU Wien in 2014 and became a full professor in 2016. Brandić’s research focuses on cloud computing, energy-efficient ultra-scale systems, and hybrid quantum-classical computing. She has been recognized with the MiA Award (2011), the Austrian Science Fund's Start-Preis (2015), and membership in the Austrian Academy of Sciences' Young Academy (2016). Her work emphasizes sustainable computing, edge systems, and optimizing resource management for distributed applications. Education: Bachelor's degree in Business Informatics (University of Vienna/TU Wien) Master's in Business Computer Science (University of Vienna, 2002) PhD in Applied Computer Science (TU Wien, 2007) Habilitation in Practical Computer Science (TU Wien, 2013) Research Interests: Brandić’s work spans cloud computing, energy efficiency in HPC systems, edge computing, and quantum-classical hybrid systems. She explores autonomic resource management, distributed system resilience, and sustainability in ultra-scale infrastructures. Her projects often address real-world applications like drug design, environmental monitoring, and smart energy grids. Publications: Her 2009 paper Cloud Computing and Emerging IT Platforms is a seminal work in the field. Recent publications focus on quantum-edge integration, energy optimization in AI models, and adaptive edge analytics frameworks. These contributions highlight trends toward sustainable, distributed, and hybrid computational paradigms. Awards: 2011: MiA Award for distinguished contributions by international backgrounds 2015: Austrian Science Fund’s Start Prize 2016: Austrian Academy of Sciences Young Academy Membership Advising & Grants: Brandić leads research groups and has secured grants for projects like NESSUS (energy-efficient cloud systems) and CHIST-ERA’s SDCDN (distributed networks). She mentors students in HPC, edge computing, and quantum systems. Advised topics include workload scheduling, fault tolerance, and energy-aware algorithms. Labs & Teams: She directs research on autonomic cloud management, edge intelligence frameworks (e.g., Sea-LEAP, FRESCO), and quantum-classical workflow systems (RIGOLETTO). Her teams collaborate internationally, integrating academia and industry for scalable, sustainable solutions.
Johannes Schweiger is a Professor in the Textile Art and Design Department at the Institute of Fine Arts and Cultural Studies, University of Applied Arts Linz. His academic role began in the Winter Semester 2022. His research focuses on the intersection of textile art, design, and cultural studies, particularly exploring ornamentation in material culture and its parallels with cosmetic practices like 'Smokey Eyes' and 'Dewy Glow.' He critiques the marginalization of ornamentation in contemporary functionalist and sustainable design trends. Schweiger’s work bridges artistic, architectural, and identity-related dimensions of decorative practices. In his inaugural lecture on May 3, 2023, he analyzed textile artworks to illustrate how ornamentation engages with concepts of identity construction and typology through material and aesthetic processes. His interdisciplinary approach links decorative techniques in art and design to broader sociocultural narratives.
