Winter School 2026
Hard Facts
- Location: University of Applied Sciences Technikum Wien (UASTW), Vienna, Austria
- Duration:
– 2 online Kick-Off Meetings: 13th of October 2026 at 11am + date for 2nd meeting will be coordinated with supervisor after project assignment
– 5 days on-site: 23rd – 27th of November 2026 - Format: Hands-on Project Work
- Target Audience: Bachelor & Master Students with interest in Life Science Engineering
- Credits: 2 ECTs
About the Winter School
The Winter School “Healthy Ageing: A Life Science Engineering Challenge” is an intensive, project-based learning experience where students work in multidisciplinary and international teams on cutting-edge challenges in the field of healthy aging. Over one week, participants engage with real-world problems bridging life sciences and engineering innovation.
Our Goal
To equip the next generation of life science engineers with hands-on experience in developing innovative, technology-driven solutions that enhance quality of life and promote healthy aging. We foster collaborative problem-solving, interdisciplinary thinking, and practical engineering skills while addressing pressing societal challenges.
What to Expect
During this intensive week, you will:
- Work on specialized projects with expert supervisors in fields ranging from nutrition and biotechnology to virtual reality and biomechanics
- Collaborate with peers in small international teams, developing essential teamwork and communication skills
- Gain hands-on experience with cutting-edge technologies and research methodologies
- Present your project outcomes and insights to peers and supervisors
- Network with professionals, researchers, and fellow students in the life science engineering field
Project Overview
Six exciting projects are available. During the application process, you will select your preferred project(s), and we will assign you to a team based on your interests and the supervisors’ capacity. Each project addresses key aspects of healthy aging:
- Critical Impact of Sustainable Nutrition on Aging and Health
Explore innovative nutritional solutions using fermentation and circular bioeconomy principles. Address emerging environmental threats like microplastics and PFAS while developing actionable strategies for sustainable nutrition.
Supervisor: Christine Bertl
Prior Knowledge:
– Knowledge in Longevity Research, Nutritional Chemistry, Circular Bioeconomy and/or Biodiversity is helpful but not necessary - Virtual Reality for Elderly Mobility and Physical Engagement
Refine and extend a Virtual Reality application using Meta Quest 3 that promotes mobility and physical activity for older adults. Combine immersive VR development with accessibility design to create engaging, user-friendly experiences.
Supervisor: Nada Eidi
Prior Knowledge:
– Basics of C# Scripting and Unity
– Knowledge in Accessibility Design is helpful but not necessary - Impact of Lifting Technique on Lower Back Load
Conduct motion analysis studies to investigate how different lifting techniques affect lower back load. Use musculoskeletal modeling software to quantify biomechanical impacts and develop evidence-based recommendations.
Supervisor: Lena Wurzinger
Prior Knowledge:
– Basics of programming (Matlab or Python)
– Basics of motion analysis and/or OpenSim are helpful but not necessary - Decoding Healthy Aging with Genetics and Transcriptomics
Analyze RNAseq datasets to uncover how gene expression changes with age across different tissues. Assess aging signatures and connect findings to existing literature and research.
Supervisor: Jana Block
Prior Knowledge:
– Basic knowledge of molecular biology (gene expression) is helpful but not necessary
– No prior bioinformatics experience needed - Muscle Activation and Healthy Ageing – Exploring Age Simulation with EMG
Investigate how age-related physical limitations influence muscle activity using electromyography (EMG) and the GERT age simulation suit. Design measurement approaches to compare muscle activation patterns and explore neuromuscular changes during everyday activities.
Supervisor: Sarah Langer
Prior Knowledge:
– Basics in Matlab, EMG and signal acquisition and processing are helpful, but not necessary - Activity Recognition & HRV Analysis for Preventive Health
Validate consumer wearables for health monitoring by comparing them against laboratory-grade sensors. Design and execute a study to recognize physical activities and analyze heart rate variability, then evaluate the reliability of consumer devices for preventive health applications.
Supervisor: Richard Pasteka
Prior Knowledge:
– Basic programming skills in Python or MATLAB (data loading, filtering, basic statistics).
Who Should Apply
This Winter School is ideal for:
- Bachelor and Master students interested in Life Science Engineering
- English at least B2 level
- Students passionate about innovation and real-world problem-solving
- Individuals who thrive in collaborative, interdisciplinary and international environments
- Students interested in exploring careers at the intersection of life sciences, engineering, and aging research
Please check the respective project description above for necessary prior experience!
What We Offer
- Expert Supervision: Learn directly from experienced researchers and engineers in the field
- State-of-the-Art Facilities & Technology: Access to cutting-edge equipment and software
- Structured Learning: A balance of guided instruction and independent project work
- Networking Opportunities: Connect with international peers, professionals, and faculty in the field
- Certificate of Participation: For weekly hours equivalent to 2 ECTS credits
- Creative Freedom: Adapt project outcomes based on your interests and expertise
- No compensation for travel expenses, meals or accommodation can be provided!
How to Apply
Required Documents
Please submit the following documents with your application:
- Short Cover Letter: Max. 1 page with motivation, previous expertise and which project(s) appeal to you
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Project Preference: Select projects you would like to participate in – you will be assigned to your preferred project based on availability and fit with your background
Note: Please bring your own laptop!
Application Timeline
- Deadline for Applications: 13 September 2026
- Application Status Notification: By 27 September 2026
Questions?
For more information about the Winter School or application process, please contact the Winter School Coordination Team at lisa.hartl@technikum-wien.at.
We look forward to welcoming you to an exciting week of innovation, collaboration, and discovery!
Funding Information
This Winter School is organized by the ILSE project, which is funded by the City of Vienna Municipal Department 23 (Economic Affairs, Labour and Statistics).
