USTP Participates in Research Forum of Universities of Applied Sciences

On 15 and 16 April, the 19^th “Forschungsforum der Fachhochschulen” (Research Forum of Universities of Applied Sciences, FFH 2026) took place at FH CAMPUS 02 in Graz. Approximately 300 participants from the worlds of science, business, and politics as well as representatives of 17 universities of applied sciences (UAS) were part of the event.

A total of 136 practically relevant research projects were presented. The focus was on concrete solutions to current challenges and their immediate use for the economy and society. The Research Forum thus impressively emphasised the performance of the UAS sector with regard to application-oriented research – from idea to implementation.

Numerous Contributions by USTP

USTP was also strongly represented at the event. Our researchers presented projects on many topics including:

• Digital competencies in physiotherapy
• Spyware checking in IT security
• Inclusive mobility
• Empowerment in nursing
• Strengthening of teenagers’ digital health competencies
• Use of Extended Reality (XR) in teaching climate competencies
• XR training for the health professions
• International best practices in physiotherapy

UAS as Key Players in Innovation System

“Universities of applied Sciences are a central component of the Austrian education, research, and innovation system. They strengthen regions, promote social permeability, and make a key contribution to the fast translation of research into marketable innovation thanks to their close collaboration with companies – particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs)”, states the Austrian Conference of Universities of Applied Sciences (FHK) in its press release on the Research Forum.

A central agenda item of the event was the presentation of the “Grazer Memorandum” which was handed over to Eva-Maria Holzleitner, Federal Minister of Women, Science and Research. The memorandum, which is based on the unanimous resolution of the FHK’s Executive Board, highlights the role of UAS as indispensable players in the innovation system and formulates concrete measures for the promotion of applied research.

Demand for Secure Research Funding and Right to Award Doctorates

The Austrian Conference of Universities of Applied Sciences (FHK) has demanded secure research funding and the right to award doctorates for universities of applied sciences (Fachhochschulen, FH / Hochschulen für Angewandte Wissenschaften, HAW) in Austria. USTP supports this demand. With their regional anchoring and practically relevant research oriented towards central future topics, FH/HAW make a significant contribution to the innovative capability of our businesses and society. PhD students drive innovations and bring them to bear in the economy, industry, and SMEs. Both the right to award PhDs and sustainable funding for the research sector are decisive when it comes to further enhancing this effect and promoting the transfer of research into concrete applications.

FHK press releases on the Research Forum:

• 19^th Research Forum: In times of crisis, we need innovation through applied research! (in German)
• 19^th Research Forum of FH/HAW in Graz sends clear political signals for further development (in German)
  

Further information:

• Read more about the Research Forum 2026
• Read more about research at USTP