Organisation

Here you will find out all there is to know about the tasks, objectives and bodies of the Austrian Research Association.

What we do

Objectives

The Austrian Research Association is financed by the Austrian State as well as Austria’s federal provinces. It was founded in 1977 to give fresh impetus to research funding and science policies in Austria. In other words, we strive to improve the future orientation and ensure the quality of research and teaching in Austria. Moreover, we promote dialogue across disciplines and research sites on scientifically and socially relevant topics, and encourage corresponding research projects. We also work on educational and university policy issues and play a vital role in the promotion of young scholars.

Tasks and responsibilities

The Austrian Research Association encourages interdisciplinary dialogue and exchange on scientifically and socially relevant topics. In addition to the Science Day, we organise colloquia, host workshops on educational and science policy issues, prepare corresponding position papers, initiate working groups for networking and interdisciplinary research activities, and promote young scholars in their research endeavours. We are also in charge of allocating funding – e.g., the “International Communication” programme – and award the Austrian Research Association’s Science Prize for outstanding scientific achievements. We also work with other scientific institutions (e.g., Science Council, Universities Austria, Austrian Science Fund, Academy of Sciences) and cooperate with Austria’s federal provinces within the framework of scientific events.

Role of the Scientific Advisory Board

The Scientific Advisory Board determines the focus and scope of the Austrian Research Association’s activities. It plans various activities and decides on the funding of research projects exclusively based on scientific criteria. The selection of members of the Scientific Advisory Board – appointed solely due to their professional qualifications – is intended to represent not only all Austrian universities but also a broad spectrum of scientific fields.

Executive Bodies