Isabella Uhl-Hädicke

Isabella Uhl-Hädicke is a Senior Scientist in Psychology at Paris Lodron University Salzburg, specializing in environmental psychology with a focus on climate change communication, public acceptance of environmental policies, and psychological barriers to climate action. Her research examines how political orientation, values, and communication strategies influence climate change skepticism and policy acceptance, particularly in the Austrian context.

Her research interests center on understanding the psychological mechanisms behind climate inaction, with particular emphasis on cognitive dissonance in pro-environmental behavior, the role of emotions in climate communication, and strategies for overcoming psychological barriers to climate action. She investigates how framing effects, political ideology, and gender dynamics shape public responses to climate policies like carbon pricing.

Uhl-Hädicke's publication record demonstrates consistent research output focused on climate psychology, with recent work analyzing Austrian climate change skepticism, examining the 'value-action gap' in environmental behavior, and exploring how worry can be productively harnessed in climate communication. Her research frequently employs representative samples and interdisciplinary approaches connecting psychology with environmental policy.

• Marie Andeßner Stipendium (2013)
• Nominierung 'Österreicher:innen des Jahres 2021' - Kategorie Forschung
• Otto Wittschier Wissenschaftspreis (2012)
• Salzburger Umwelt-Verdienstzeichen 2022 - Kategorie Umweltschutz und Klima

She actively engages in science communication through numerous media appearances, public lectures, and participation in Scientists4Future Salzburg. Uhl-Hädicke serves in project leadership roles for SALZBURG 2050 climate initiatives and contributes to university sustainability efforts through her work on 'Das grüne PLUS!' sustainability programs at Paris Lodron University Salzburg. Her research has significant third-mission impact, connecting academic findings with practical climate action and policy recommendations.