Research Networks
Research networks are an instrument to bring together researchers at the University of Vienna, in particular in subject areas that are relevant for society, and create a critical mass, which can be the starting point for applications for research platforms.
The following research networks have been established with the participation of researchers from the Faculty of Life Sciences:
Climate change, biodiversity loss and environmental pollution are highly complex global challenges and require integrated and interdisciplinary collaboration. To meet these challenges, the "Environment and Climate Research Hub" (ECH) bridges faculties and centres, considering disciplinary anchoring and existing high-class track records, to promote excellent research in the field of environment and climate. The ECH strengthens the reputation of the University of Vienna nationally and internationally, increases its attractiveness internationally as an employer and research site, supports the excellent education of the next generation, and promotes the internal cohesion of the University.
Vienna Cognitive Science Hub is a network of researchers at the University of Vienna active in various disciplines of Cognitive Science and Neuroscience. The overarching goal of the Vienna CogSciHub is to foster interdisciplinary research in the cognitive sciences in Vienna. A unique characteristic of our Hub is that we incorporate cognitive sciences in the broadest sense, not just “traditional” fields like psychology and computer science, but also the humanities (art history, linguistics, musicology, and philosophy), and life sciences (cognitive biology, evolution research, and neuroscience). The core topic binding these fields together is methodology: the scientists in the Hub share an empirical mind-set that involves using (and often sharing) a diverse set of methods including eye-tracking, statistical modelling, field methods, virtual reality, EEG, fMRI, and brain stimulation (TMS and tDCS).
The HEAS research network at the University of Vienna brings together a diverse array of scientific disciplines to study human biological and cultural evolution. With a strong thematic focus and considerable scale, HEAS is an interdisciplinary hub of excellence, integrating fields such as evolutionary anthropology, archaeology, genetics, palaeontology, life history, behavioural biology, isotope physics, geophysics, remote sensing, geology, environmental systems science, geochemistry, and material sciences. HEAS fosters collaboration across seven research units from five faculties and centres within the University of Vienna, alongside two external partner institutions. This dynamic structure enables researchers to address complex questions about humanity's past through cutting-edge, integrative approaches.
The Health in Society research network at the University of Vienna takes a holistic and interdisciplinary approach to understanding health. It recognizes that health is shaped not only by biology and personal behavior but also by social, political, economic, and environmental factors. The network brings together researchers from diverse disciplines—ranging from psychology and biology to the social sciences and environmental studies—to explore health, medicine, and well-being in global and societal contexts. By fostering collaboration with other research institutions, civil society, policy makers, and the public, the network aims to generate new insights and co-create solutions to pressing health challenges. It serves as a platform for dialogue, research, and engagement, strengthening the role of science in promoting health for all.