Vifzack Academy
Vifzack Academy is your research week with shared accommodation and lots of cool research content, excursions, and leisure activities!
You will meet kids and teens your age who share your interests. At the campus of the Institute of Science and Technology Austria (ISTA) in Klosterneuburg, you will gain practical research experience, meet top researchers, and spend a week with other students who are just as enthusiastic about research as you are. This offer is aimed at secondary school students from all over Austria.
Application and selection process
The Vifzack Academy 2026 will take place from August 23 to 28. The application and selection process for the Vifzack Academy is organized and implemented by the Federal Ministry of Education. All information can be found on the website of the Federal Ministry of Education. Once the application process is complete, you will receive further information on our website.
Courses for grades 5-6
Computer Science & Robotics
Have you ever watched a robot vacuum cleaner? How does it know where to go? In this group, you will build your own robot, work with sensors, and learn how to program microcontrollers.
BioLab – Research in the microbiological laboratory
Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of microorganisms and explore how life works on the smallest scale. Through carefully selected experiments, you will discover structures of life that are invisible to the naked eye. This research journey not only provides insight into the secrets of the microcosm, but also reveals amazing insights into your own relationship with all living things on Earth.
Invention workshop – Tinker like a scientist!
Here you will be transported into a world of creativity and design: together with other young inventors, you will create completely new things from everyday materials, test them, and improve them. In the process, you will learn a lot about the physical principles behind exciting phenomena in a playful way and experience how small mishaps can often be the path to great successes.
Courses for grades 7-8
Space
A brief journey through the universe takes you right to the heart of current missions and programs in modern space travel—from lunar stations to plans for Mars. We deal with astrophysics, current missions to the moon and Mars, rockets and robotics in space travel, new technologies and materials, as well as the philosophy of technology and grand visions of the future. If you want to explore real questions about the future and work creatively on solutions for life in space, then you've come to the right place!
Neuroscience Bootcamp
If you've always wanted to know what our brains are capable of, then you've come to the right place! In the Neuroscience Bootcamp, we fire up nerve cells, learn how our senses work—and how they can be deceived—and find out what goes on in the laboratories of brain researchers.
Math Bootcamp
Discover the common language of many scientific disciplines, the fascinating world of mathematics. Meet math researchers at ISTA and learn more about their research. Discover the secrets behind card tricks and learn more about game theory concepts that you can master with mathematical knowledge.
Program during workshop-free time
In addition to the research program, there are also other activities on the agenda. This is currently being planned and ranges from improvisational theater to get-to-know-you and team-building activities on the day of arrival (Sunday evening), to PowerPoint karaoke, a relaxing afternoon at the outdoor pool, a visit to the Science Experience Exhibition, and stargazing on a nighttime excursion.
Vifzack Academy 2025
The Vifzack Academy is a project of
