Rainer Abart

Rainer Abart is a full Professor and the Dean of the Faculty of Earth Sciences, Geography and Astronomy at the University of Vienna, where he leads research at the Department of Lithospheric Research. His academic career spans over three decades with appointments at prestigious institutions including the Free University Berlin, University of Basel, and Karl-Franzens-University Graz.

Abart's research focuses on petrology, mineral physics, thermodynamics, and geochemistry. His work particularly emphasizes metamorphic, magmatic, and experimental petrology, with significant contributions to understanding diffusion and diffusive phase transformations in minerals, phase equilibria, irreversible thermodynamics, mineral reaction kinetics, and fluid-rock interactions. His research bridges theoretical models with experimental approaches to unravel complex geological processes.

His recent publications demonstrate a consistent focus on mineral reactions, diffusion processes, and microstructural evolution in geological materials. A significant portion of his work investigates alkali feldspar systems, examining diffusion mechanisms, phase transformations, and crystal structures using advanced techniques like atom probe tomography and neural network modeling. He also conducts important research on mantle xenoliths, mineral inclusions in garnet, and the petrogenesis of various rock types.

• Elected full member of the Austrian Academy of Sciences (2022)
• Elected corresponding member of the Austrian Academy of Sciences (2013)
• FWF grant I 4404-N: Diffusion-diffusive phase transformations in alkali feldspar (2020-2023)
• FWF grant I 4580-N: Moldanubian deep crustal metasomatism (2021-2023)
• FWF grant I3998-N29: Fe-Ti oxide inclusions and magnetism of oceanic gabbro (2019-2023)
• Felix-Machatschki award of the Austrian Mineralogical Association

Abart has secured numerous research grants from major funding agencies including FWF, DFG, and SNF. He has served in significant administrative roles including Head of Department of Lithospheric Research (2010-2022), Deputy Director of Earth Sciences studies program, and Speaker of the DOGMA doctoral school. His research collaborations span internationally with partners in Germany, Slovenia, Russia, and other countries. His laboratory work combines experimental petrology with advanced analytical techniques to study mineral reactions and transformations.