Rainer Hahn

Rainer Hahn is an Associate Professor in Biochemical Engineering at the Institute of Biochemical Engineering, Department of Biotechnology and Food Sciences, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna (BOKU). He also serves as Head of the Downstream Processing Unit at the BioIndustrial Pilot Plant and is a key researcher at the Austrian Center of Industrial Biotechnology (ACIB). His work is centered on bioprocess engineering with a strong focus on downstream processing and biopharmaceutical purification.

• University: University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna (BOKU)
• School: Department of Biotechnology and Food Sciences
• Department: Institute of Biochemical Engineering
• Role: Associate Professor, Head of Downstream Processing Unit

His research interests span Bioprocess Engineering, Downstream Processing, Industrial Biotechnology, Pharmaceutical Technology, and Chemical Biology. He investigates advanced purification techniques, particularly in chromatography and protein separation processes. His recent work emphasizes multicomponent adsorption, protein A affinity systems, and purification of complex biomolecules like secretory immunoglobulin A (sIgA).

The trend in his recent publications reveals a strong emphasis on protein purification, chromatographic modeling, and process optimization in biopharmaceutical manufacturing. His work integrates experimental analysis with mathematical modeling to improve efficiency and predictability in downstream operations, especially in multi-component systems. Topics such as continuous chromatography, pH transients, and affinity resin development reflect his leadership in advancing industrial bioprocessing.

His notable scientific awards include:

• HOUSKA PRIZE (Recognition Award) - 2016
• Dissertation Prize of the Austrian Society for Biotechnology - 2002

Rainer Hahn has been actively involved in numerous research projects funded by FWF, national enterprises, and private foundations, focusing on biopharmaceutical purification and process development. He mentors students and contributes to academic training through lectures and supervision. He is also a dedicated reviewer for leading journals such as Journal of Chromatography A, Biotechnology and Bioengineering, and Separation and Purification Technology. His work is closely tied to industrial applications, particularly in the development of scalable and efficient biomanufacturing processes.

He is associated with the BioIndustrial Pilot Plant and collaborates with ACIB, contributing to innovation in industrial biotechnology. His research group focuses on developing robust downstream strategies for next-generation biopharmaceuticals.