In a project supported by the Austrian Science Fund FWF, the biologist Jitka Polechová created a theoretical model to describe the spreading of animal and plant species. She was able to show that the underlying mechanisms are simpler than previously thought, which has important consequences for species conservation. Continue reading “A new model for the geographic ranges of species”
With the support of the Austrian Science Fund FWF, the chemist Zita Csendes has defined and tested iron complexes as a sustainable, inexpensive and efficient alternative to precious-metal catalysts. The shift from catalyst solution to reusable pore coating required mastering many chemical parameters. Continue reading “Catalytic converter with a green profile”
In a project funded by the Austrian Science Fund FWF, a research group led by biophysicist Tobias Bollenbach is investigating the effect of antibiotic combinations on bacteria. Their aim is to develop new strategies against antibiotic resistance. Continue reading “How different antibiotics work together”
Is there such a thing as objective morality? And what do philosophical laypeople think about this idea? These are questions explored by the philosopher Thomas Pölzler from Graz. At the College of Charleston, Schrödinger fellow Pölzler produced exciting results on this issue, implemented new research ideas and, last but not least, learned a great deal about the cultural differences between the USA and Austria. Continue reading “Now tell me, how do you feel about morality?”
The Austrian Science Fund FWF is working to help more researchers, especially women, establish themselves in science. A look at the current status of gender equality shows that women are competing for research funding in increasing numbers, and they are doing so with as much success as men. Continue reading “A bigger role for women in science”
There are 60,000 texts stored in the basement of the Vienna Hofburg palace – on papyrus and clay fragments. A large part of them hold accounts of the early days of Islam in Egypt. For two decades, the papyrologist Federico Morelli has been vetting these historical testimonials, gaining insights into processes that contradict accepted historical wisdom. Continue reading “A gigantic jigsaw puzzle”
