Spin-off Fellowship – Funded projects

The third round of Spin-off Fellowships was announced in conjunction with the ‘Expedition Future’ initiative. Within this submission period (16 May to 24 September 2024), eight applications out of a total of 29 submitted were approved for funding. Of these, three projects will receive EUR 1 million in funding through the regular BMFWF call for proposals, and five projects will receive EUR 2.5 million in funding through the Expedition Zukunft initiative from the National Foundation for Research, Technology and Development (NATS) from the Future Austria Fund (FZÖ).
 

>> ArtNerve

ArtNerve: ARTificially-generated NERVE grafts via mechanical stimulation of therapeutic cells

University of Applied Sciences Technikum Wien

The aim is to develop artificial nerve grafts based on Schwann cells obtained from human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). With an innovative approach developed at the University of Applied Sciences Technikum Wien, ArtNerve aims to improve nerve healing in the long term and give those affected new hope for a pain-free and improved life.

Fellow: Dr.ⁱⁿ Carina Hromada, MSc.

Host: DI Dr. Andreas Teuschl-Woller
 

>> Cairos Methanation

Cairos Methanation - Revolutionising Energy Markets: Competitive Renewable Gas through Advanced Biogas Methanation

Technical University of Leoben

The energy transition requires new solutions for storing renewable energy. Cairos is developing an innovative methanation technology that converts biogenic CO2 into synthetic natural gas (BioSNG) using green hydrogen. This technology enables efficient storage of renewable energy and makes a decisive contribution to the decarbonisation of the gas grid.

Fellows: Andreas Krammer & Martin Peham

Host: Markus Lehner
 

>> CARDISENSE

CARDISENSE: An Integrated Remote Cardiac Assist Device Patient Monitoring Platform

Medical University of Vienna

The aim is to develop an innovative sensor system for the early detection of complications in patients with severe heart failure.

Fellow: DI Dr. Max Haberbusch

Host: Assoc. Prof. DI Dr. Francesco Moscato
 

>> Diadem

Diadem: Development of a novel mobile EEG for triage and diagnosis of neurological emergencies

VASCage GmbH

As part of the Spin-Off Fellowship, a prototype for an innovative, mobile electroencephalography (ECG) system is being developed to support decision-making in acute neurological emergencies. The aim is to enable a quick and reliable initial assessment – especially in cases of severe strokes and complex differential diagnoses such as status epilepticus.

Fellows: Dr Sebastian Scharer & Dr Wilhelm von Rosenberg

Host: Univ.-Prof. Dr. Stefan Kiechl
 

>> EVIA

EVIA: Efficient Visual Intelligence for Autonomous Driving and Mobility

TU Wien

The aim of this project is to develop and train efficient yet high-performance image processing models that can be used on edge devices and embedded systems for autonomous navigation. The team will develop a novel image processing model that achieves comparable performance to modern models with far fewer parameters.

Fellow: Zahra Babaiee

Host: Univ.-Prof. DI Dr. Dr. Radu Grosu
 

>> REMBAC

REMBAC - A Rapid Efficient Manifold Baculovirus Transduction Platform for stable cell line development

BOKU University Vienna

Novel therapies such as gene therapy and novel vaccines are very promising and offer the possibility of curing or preventing difficult-to-treat diseases. However, their production involves immense costs and resources. The REMBAC technology, based on baculovirus transduction, enables the production of stable production cell lines for multi-component protein complexes and more cost-efficient production.

Fellow: Manuel Reithofer

Host: Miriam Klausberger
 

>> REMO

REMO: Convertible, repairable and reusable wooden skeleton modules

Graz University of Technology

The REMO project is developing a wood construction system designed for the circular economy that opens up new possibilities for the construction industry by combining different construction systems. In contrast to conventional construction methods, the system allows flexible conversion, targeted repairs of individual components or entire modules, and easy dismantling of the building materials used. This reduces resources and CO₂ emissions, significantly extends the life and useful life of buildings, and allows the building to function as a material bank. In addition to the ecological advantages, the system also offers economic benefits, such as easier approvals, the ability to respond to market changes, reuse of the resources used (material bank), and increased safety through load redistribution options.

Fellows: Christian Keuschnig, M.Sc. & Timo Berkmann, M.Sc.

Hosts: Gerhard Schickhofer, Prof. Dr. Univ.-Prof. & Wolfgang Tom Kaden, Dipl.-Des. BDA Univ.-Prof.
 

>> SpinCell

Electro-Acoustic Spinning: A Breakthrough in Single-Cell and Microtissue Analysis

BOKU University, Vienna

A new process called electro-acoustic spinning (EAS) makes it possible to examine individual cells and small tissue samples quickly and accurately – without any time-consuming preparation. EAS provides a wealth of important information at once, faster and more cost-effectively than previous methods. As part of the Spin-off Fellowship project, this technology will now be further developed so that it can be used in practice – for example in laboratories at research institutions, hospitals or biotechnology companies.

Fellow: Dr.ⁱⁿ Tayebeh Saghaei, MSc.

Host: Univ.-Prof. Dr. Erik Reimhult

Within the second submission deadline of the Spin-off Fellowships programme (10 May to 19 September 2023), 12 applications out of a total of 34 submitted were recommended for funding by the evaluation committee. The recommendation was approved by the responsible ministry (BMBWF, Federal Ministry of Education, the Arts and Culture). The approved federal funding (state funding in Austria) amounts to EUR 5.25 million.

>> Droso_Ex

Droso_Ex: A sustainable biocide against cherry fruit flies

University of Graz – Graz

The aim is to develop an environmentally friendly biocide to combat the invasive Asian cherry fruit fly (Drosophila suzukii).

Favoured by climate change, it causes massive crop damage in fruit and red wine cultivation. The biocide relies on natural attractants and active ingredients, does not require the use of risky pesticides and protects beneficial insects. As part of the FFG Spin-Off Fellowship, a market-ready prototype is being developed, which will be tested in laboratory and field trials and will guarantee the future of red wine.

Fellows: Michaela Froehlich, LL.B. oec. & Dr Giovanni Davide Barone

Host: Ao. Univ.-Prof. Dr Walter Goessler
 

>> GEOTEQ

Sensor Systems and Technologies for scalable monitoring of snow avalanches and other geophysical processes

University of Graz – Graz

Current local avalanche assessments are often selective, manual and risky. They also usually only record avalanche events that have caused damage to people and/or infrastructure. This project revolutionises this approach by using state-of-the-art, cost-effective sensor technology and satellite data to enable comprehensive, continuous and automated assessment and prediction of avalanche risk. This not only increases safety in affected regions, but also provides a comprehensive database that includes previously unaccounted-for avalanche activity.

Fellow: Mag. Bakk. Ing. Thomas Goelles, PhD

Host: Univ.-Prof. Dr. Wolfgang Schöner
 

>> GoNoDrug

Development of drug candidates against gonorrhea

University of Vienna – Vienna

The aim of the project is to develop novel preclinical drug candidates as ultra-non-spectrum antibiotics against the most important human pathogens, with a focus on gonorrhoea (gonorrhoea), a sexually transmitted disease caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae (gonorrhoea).

Fellow: Thi Hong Nhung Nguyen, MSc.

Host: Univ.-Prof. Dr. Thomas Böttcher
 

>> IoT4SHM

Wireless sensor systems for building monitoring

Graz University of Technology – Graz

The aim of the project is to further develop a sustainable and cost-efficient overall solution (modular system) for structural health monitoring in the form of a wireless sensor network system including a cloud-based software framework with tools for data analysis and visualisation, preventive risk assessment, documentation and alerting to market maturity.

Fellows: DI (FH) Helmut Pongratz & DI Thomas Muelleder, BSc.

Host: Univ.-Prof. Dipl.-Wirtsch.-Ing. Dr.-Ing. Markus Krueger
 

>> P2D2

Power Processing for Defect Detection

Pro2Future GmbH – Graz

The aim of the P2D2 project is to extend existing mathematical machine learning methods to the traditional machining process. The process innovation will enable material errors or defects to be detected DURING the machining process, i.e. in real time during the manufacturing process, without the need for additional hardware and using existing edge systems.

Fellows: DI Dr. Muaaz Abdul Hadi & DI Dr. Stefan Trabesinger

Host: DI Gerd Hribernig
 

>> PiColor Spin-off

Sustainable screen printing inks for textile and paper printing coloured with pigments from plant dyes.

University of Innsbruck – Innsbruck

On the path to a circular economy, Dr. Judith Deriu is developing sustainable and environmentally friendly screen printing inks and plant pigments for textile and paper printing at the Forschungsinstitut für Textilchemie und Textilphysik (Research Institute for Textile Chemistry and Textile Physics) in Dornbirn. The development process focuses on switching from petrochemicals to renewable raw materials, drastically reducing chemical synthesis steps and maintaining the biodegradability of all components.

Fellow: Dr Judith Deriu

Host: Univ.-Prof. Dr Tung Pham
 

>> ProLipEM

Lipid-like liquid crystals as proton conducting materials for fuel cells

University of Graz – Graz

The team at the University of Graz has developed a new membrane technology based on bio-inspired molecular structures (ProLipEMs). ProLipEMs not only have a lower environmental impact throughout their entire life cycle, but some of the chemical building blocks can also be obtained from renewable resources. These new membrane solutions would therefore make it possible to directly replace environmentally harmful perfluorinated and polyfluorinated alkyl substances (PFAS)-based membranes and also extend the operating range of fuel cells to a wider temperature and humidity range. As part of this spin-off project, the team aims to optimise the new materials for use in fuel cells by investigating their conductivity, stability and service life in fuel cell devices while scaling up the manufacturing processes.

Fellows: Dr James Jennings & Kurt Mayer, BSc.

Host: Assoc. Prof. Georg Pabst
 

>> QuantumGain

An Austrian deep tech, hidden champion for superconducting quantum computer hardware

Austrian Academy of Sciences – Vienna

At the Institute for Quantum Optics and Quantum Information in Vienna, part of the Austrian Academy of Sciences, Markus Aspelmeyer and Philip Schmidt's team is researching quantum systems and improving their measurement accuracy. As part of their research, they have developed a quantum amplifier that amplifies signals of different frequencies evenly. This innovation opens up new possibilities for scaling quantum computers. As part of the FFG fellowship, we aim to develop prototypes that we will test in practical applications in collaboration with leading manufacturers of quantum computers.

Fellow: Dr. Philip Schmidt, BSc., MSc.

Host: Univ.-Prof. Dr. Markus Aspelmeyer
 

>> Sisyphus

SustaInable SYngas Production by Highly-efficient CO2 UtiliSation

Technical  University of Leoben

The conversion of CO2 into valuable products is known as carbon capture and utilisation (CCU). Sisyphus is researching a technology in which CO2 is converted with green hydrogen into so-called renewable synthesis gas, which is a starting material for the manufacture of many other products. Among other things, this process can be used to obtain sustainable fuels, for example for aviation (Sustainable Aviation Fuels, SAF).

Fellows: Dr Thomas Cotter & Lorenz Lindenthal

Host: Prof. Christoph Rameshan
 

>> SuRF

Non-Invasive Measurement of RF signals on Integrated Circuits

TU Wien  – Vienna

The ‘SuRF’ technology (sub-µm radio frequency sensing), which is being developed at the Institute for Automation and Control Engineering (ACIN) at TU Wien, enables contactless measurement and analysis of signals in high-frequency (HF) chips with unrivalled accuracy. These chips are essential components of modern communication systems and everyday devices such as smartphones. Due to the increasing complexity of future chip generations, conventional measurement methods are finding it increasingly difficult to meet the growing requirements. To close this gap (known in the semiconductor industry as the ‘verification gap’), the development of innovative measurement methods is essential.

Fellow: DI Thomas Hackl, BSc.

Host: Univ.-Prof. DI Dr. Georg Schitter
 

>> SVAN

Safe Vascular Access Needle for Neonatal and Small Animal Emergency

Medical University of Vienna – Vienna

This project has two objectives: to develop a safe and automatic device for administering life-saving drugs directly into the bones of newborns and small animals, and to develop a realistic trainer.

Fellow: Dr Gunpreet Oberoi

Host: Univ.-Prof. Dipl.-Ing. Dr Wolfgang Drexler
 

>> TIL-DER

Tissue-infiltrating lymphocytes – direct evaluation of receptors

Medical University of Graz – Graz

The use of immune cells to treat cancer, a form of immunotherapy, offers great hope in modern medicine. This type of therapy can enable complete healing, especially in patients with limited treatment options and/or advanced cancer, but only some patients respond. TIL-DER tests immune cells for their effectiveness so that healing cells can be administered in a targeted manner, thereby significantly improving the efficiency of the therapy.

Fellows: Ana Santiso, MSc. & Dr Oliver Kindler

Host: Dr Julia Kargl

Within the first submission deadline of the Spin-off Fellowships programme (20 May 2022 – 14 September 2022), a total of 36 formally valid applications were submitted, of which 10 were recommended for funding by the evaluation committee. The recommendation was approved by the responsible ministry (BMBWF, the Austrian Federal Ministry for Education, the Arts and Culture). The approved federal funding amounts to EUR 4.5 million.
 

>> AMERICA

Advanced modular software engines for precision molecular imaging

Medical University of Vienna – Vienna

Artificial intelligence meets molecular precision imaging

AMERICA is an ambitious initiative that aims to revolutionise the application of artificial intelligence in the field of radiology and nuclear medicine. Led by Lalith Sundar from the Medical University of Vienna, the project focuses on an advanced AI co-pilot system called AIstronaut. This unique orchestrator uses sophisticated linguistic AI to seamlessly coordinate a range of AI tools for image analysis and effectively treat them like plugins.

Fellow: Dr Lalith Kumar Shiyam Sundar

Host: Dr Thomas Beyer, MBA
 

>> Avtonomy

Development of modular sensor fusion for standard drones for fully autonomous data acquisition in industry without GPS

University of Klagenfurt – Carinthia

Affordable drone-based precision farming for SMEs

Despite major advances in drone technology, at least some steps in drone flights are still performed manually or require highly specialised platforms and technologies – at high cost and limited to very specific uses. The team sees these issues – in addition to the strict regulations that still apply today – as one of the biggest obstacles to the use of fully autonomous drones in SMEs and industries with lower margins. Based on years of research and development, the team led by Alexander Hardt-Stremayr from the University of Klagenfurt is providing a novel technology package for industry that can also be installed on existing drones and standard drone kits thanks to the use of standard sensors and its high modularity.

Fellow: Alexander Hardt-Stremayr, Christian Reichmann & Markus Fox

Host: Prof. Stephan Weiss

>> CALC Dx

Cancer and Aging Liquid Chromatin Diagnostics

Medical University of Graz – Styria

The main objective of the project is to further develop the liquid biopsy methods developed by Samantha Hasenleithner and Benjamin Spiegl at the Medical University of Graz from the early stage of technology into robust methods that can be used in medical diagnostics. This includes completing the software prototype, expanding the established algorithms and fine-tuning them, and determining their resolution limits in each application to ensure the necessary robustness in specific use cases.

Fellows: Dr. Samantha Hasenleithner & DI Benjamin Spiegl

Host: Univ.-Prof. Dr. Michael Speicher
 

>> CRC-OC-OV

An oncolytic influenza A virus adapted to primary organotypic cultures of a CRC patient cohort via directed evolution

Medical University of Vienna – Vienna

Julijan Kabiljo and Jakob Homola from the Medical University of Vienna are working on the development of adapted oncolytic influenza A viruses specific to colorectal cancer with the aim of obtaining approval and ultimately enabling their use in patients as a spin-off.

This should prolong the life and improve the quality of life of patients with metastatic colorectal cancer. The associated improvement in treatment success and the replacement of chemotherapy with the newly developed drug should also result in significantly fewer side effects for patients.

Fellows: Dr. Julijan Kabiljo & Jakob Homola, BSc.

Host: Ao. Prof. Dr. Michael Bergmann
 

>> DIGICOPRO

Digitalisation in construction: Quality assurance of concreting processes using polysensory systems

Graz University of Technology – Styria

Harmonising concreting processes for the benefit of people and the environment while conserving resources!

Concrete that is poured too quickly and unevenly results in poor concrete (surface) properties. These manifest themselves as irregularities in the structure and colour uniformity, as well as uneven surfaces and reduced concrete strength. This results in costly and time-consuming repairs. In the worst case, components may have to be demolished.

In order to improve and ensure quality in production, Ralph Stöckl and Christoph Stöckl at the Institute of Construction Management and Building Economics at Graz University of Technology are developing a polysensory monitoring, control and documentation system for concreting processes (patent pending).

Fellows: DDI Dr. Ralph Stoeckl & DI Dr. Christoph Stoeckl

Host: Assoc. Prof. Christian Hofstadler
 

>> Future Lasers (Tulon Photonics)

Compact ultra-low frequency noise and continuously tunable lasers

Institute of Science and Technology Austria – Lower Austria

New generation of lasers

Tulon Photonics specialises in versatile, cost-effective lasers with simultaneous frequency noise performance and tunability. These properties significantly increase the bandwidth and sensitivity in modern photonics applications such as optical communications, remote sensing and new quantum technologies. As part of the project, Tulon Photonics will take the first major steps towards the photonics industry and develop prototype demonstrators. Tulon Photonics offers next-generation lasers to revolutionise 21st century photonics.

Fellow: Dr. Fritz Diorico, MSc.

Host: Ass. Prof. Dr. Onur Hosten
 

>> Yeast biosensors

Yeast as microbial immunosensors for the direct detection of pathogens

FH OÖ Forschungs & Entwicklungs GmbH – Upper Austria

Alexander Zwirzitz and Kevin Trenzinger are developing a novel diagnostic method at the Wels campus of the University of Applied Sciences Upper Austria. This ‘platform technology’ is primarily intended for use in medicine for the rapid and inexpensive diagnosis of infectious diseases. The team at the University of Applied Sciences Upper Austria is using simple baker's yeast as living biological sensors. As part of the FFG Spin-off Fellowship, market studies are now being conducted and prototypes produced, which will then be tested in medical laboratories for their practical suitability and compared with existing methods.

Fellows: Mag. Alexander Zwirzitz, PhD & Kevin Trenzinger, MSc.

Host: Manuel Selg, PhD.
 

>> IrrevoChrom

Irreversible organic electrochromic inks for tamperproof/quality control labels

University of Vienna – Vienna

Entering a new era with counterfeit-proof product labels

In the age of e-commerce, an ideal tamper-proof control label must not only be cost-efficient, mass-producible, robust and indisputable, but also interactive and convenient for authentication by the end customer. Together with her team, Laura Maggini from the Institute of Organic Chemistry at the University of Vienna is developing a technology that makes product labels interactive. In IrrevoChrom's vision, product labels will be able to store and capture data about products along their supply chain and then display this information to customers as a tamper-proof visual message on the spot or on demand, without the need for an external reader.

Fellow: Dr. Laura Maggini

Host: Prof. Davide Bonifazi
 

>> Labelled amino acids

Efficient production of isotope-labelled amino acids

University of Vienna – Vienna

Predrag Kalaba from the Institute of Biological Chemistry at the University of Vienna is working with his team on an innovative and efficient process for producing a complete set of isotope-labelled amino acids. This technology is scalable, time-efficient, below current industrial production costs and provides access to a complete family of these labelled amino acids. The aim is to maintain access to these amino acids on a scale suitable for industrial production.

Fellow: Dr Predrag Kalaba

Host: Assoc. Prof. Dr Markus Muttenthaler
 

>> polyDURAMEA

Polyaniline modified catalyst for durable polymer electrolyte fuel cell membrane electrode assembly

TU Graz – Styria

Increasing the durability of fuel cells

Maximilian Grandi, Nikhat Pasha and Rene Maiberg from the Institute of Chemical Process Engineering and Environmental Technology are conducting research on the heart of the fuel cell, the MEA (membrane electrode assembly). The MEA is largely responsible for the properties of the fuel cell. One challenge lies in the limited durability of fuel cells and their high costs. A patented process developed at the institute has already doubled the service life compared to previous technologies. The aim of the polyDURAMEA project is to develop a market-ready prototype for the future decarbonisation of trucks, buses, trains, ships, aircraft and stationary applications in order to achieve massive CO2 savings.

Fellows: Maximilian Grandi, BSc., Nikhat Pasha, BEng. & Rene Maiberg, DI

Host: Prof. Viktor Hacker, DI

Within the third submission deadline for the "Spin-off Fellowships" programme (17 October 2018 – 20 March 2019), nine applications out of a total of 26 formally valid submissions were recommended for funding by the evaluation committee. The recommendation was approved by the responsible Austrian ministry (BMBWF). The approved federal funding amounts to EUR 3.4 million. 
 

>> ComBioPro

Computational BioProcess Design

Graz University of Technology – Styria

Biopharmaceutical agents, such as those used in cancer treatment, are produced by microorganisms for which the bioreactor provides optimal living conditions. Christian Witz from the Institute for Process and Particle Technology is working with his team to develop high-performance simulation software for bioreactors that provides insights into the complex manufacturing processes of pharmaceutical agents. The software, which is to be developed to market maturity during the fellowship, will now make it possible for the first time to optimise the design and operating parameters of the reactor on a computer.

Fellow: DI Dr Christian Witz, BSc.

Host: Prof. DI Dr. Johannes Khinast
 

>> KinCon biolabs

Predicting the efficacy of kinase inhibitors (cancer drugs) using patient-specific kinase reporters

University of Innsbruck – Tyrol

Philipp Tschaikner and his team are developing novel reporting systems to systematically quantify the activities of mutated kinases (enzymes that play an important role in the development of many diseases). With the help of the KinCon technology, which is already patent pending, the time-consuming and costly process of preclinical development of kinase inhibitors, which are mainly used in cancer therapies, is to be improved. The use of KinCon biosensors should make it possible to determine the efficacy of drugs in the context of different kinase mutations occurring in patients directly in living cells.

As part of the FFG Spin-Off Fellowship, two feasibility studies are being conducted in the field of breast and skin cancer to validate the suitability of the KinCon biosensor system for drug development, thereby demonstrating the practical applicability and market readiness of the technology.

Fellow: Philipp Tschaikner, MSc.

Hosts: Dr Eduard Stefan & Ao.Univ.-Prof. Dr Rainer Schneider
 

>> NANOLIGNIN

Product and process development for nano- and microscale lignin from renewable resources

Vienna University of Technology – Vienna

Angela and Martin Miltner and their team at the Institute of Process Engineering, Environmental Technology and Technical Biosciences at the Vienna University of Technology will develop an environmentally friendly and sustainable alternative to UV blockers in everyday products. This alternative is lignin, a natural component of woody biomass that is obtained in the form of particles in the micro and nano size range (nanolignin). A technology patented by the team will be used to produce these particles, which will be brought to market maturity during the project. The development is being carried out in collaboration with two companies from the paint and cosmetics industry, based on the application of nanolignin as a UV blocker in water-based paints and sunscreens.

Fellows: DI Dr. Angela Miltner & DI Dr. Martin Miltner

Host: Univ.-Prof. DI. Dr. Anton Friedl
 

>> NovoSome

Efficient and sustainable oral administration of pharmaceuticals through tailor-made ether lipids

Vienna University of Technology – Vienna

The team led by David Wurm and Julian Quehenberger is developing a technology that can replace injections with tablets. When taken orally, active substances are normally broken down in the stomach by acids and enzymes. In addition, the drugs are only partially absorbed by the body due to their short residence time in the intestine.By packaging active substances in special lipid shells, they can pass through the stomach and stick to the intestinal mucosa. There, the active substance is slowly released and can be efficiently absorbed over a longer period of time.

This technology has already been successfully tested for vaccines, antibiotics, insulin, cancer therapies and other active ingredients and, thanks to our patented and scalable production process for the required lipids, has the potential to come onto the market soon.

Fellows: DI Dr. David J.Wurm & DI Julian Quehenberger

Host: Assoz. Prof. DI Dr. Oliver Spadiut
 

>> RetinSight (formerly A-Eye)

Software for automatic OCT analysis for screening and monitoring retinal diseases

Medical University of Vienna – Vienna

Amir Sadeghipour and Sabine Rentz-Chorherr are developing artificial intelligence algorithms at the University Clinic for Ophthalmology for the automatic evaluation of optical coherence tomography (OCT) images. OCT is a non-invasive imaging technique that quickly and accurately captures a 3D scan and reveals pathological biomarkers in all layers of the retina. The aim is to bring the artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms already developed to market maturity. The automatic evaluation of 3D retinal images significantly improves early detection and treatment. The vision is that every patient worldwide will benefit from this innovation in ophthalmology in the form of personalised medicine.

Fellows: Dr Amir Sadeghipour & Mag. Sabine Rentz-Chorherr

Host: Univ.-Prof. Dr Ursula Schmidt-Erfurth
 

>> SNAP

Social Network Asset Predictor – software for automated prediction of price changes based on Twitter messages

University of Vienna – Vienna

Michael Trimmel, Markus Tretzmüller and Alexander Steiner from the Theory and Applications of Algorithms Research Group at the University of Vienna's Faculty of Computer Science are developing artificial intelligence-based software that predicts price changes in individual Twitter messages. A wide variety of methods researched in university projects in the fields of text processing and sentiment analysis, topic modelling and first story detection form the basis of SNAP.

As part of the spin-off fellowship, the individual modules are now being combined into a framework and innovative modelling is being researched that will make it possible for the first time to anticipate very accurate and fast price predictions from individual Twitter messages.

Fellows: Michael Trimmel, BSc., Markus Tretzmüller, BSc. & DI Alexander Steiner

Host: Univ.-Prof. DI Dr. Wilfried Gansterer, MSc.
 

>> SOPHIE smart shower

The energy-saving shower with highly efficient heat recovery and reheating for wall-integrated compact solutions

University of Innsbruck – Tyrol

SOPHIE is a smart, compact shower device that sets a new standard for the shower experience. The product reduces hot water consumption when showering by 80%. SOPHIE works with a built-in, highly efficient counterflow heat exchanger that uses waste water to preheat fresh water. SOPHIE will replace current inefficient standard hot water systems while requiring less space and can be installed directly in the bathroom as a prefabricated complete solution that is inexpensive, simple and quick to install.

Fellow: Pavel Sevela, MSc.

Host: Assoz. Prof. Dr.-Ing. Rainer Pfluger
 

>> STAT5 inhibitors

Targeting STAT5 oligomerisation in leukaemia

University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna – Vienna

Dr. Anna Orlova from VetMedUni (University of Veterinary Medicine) Vienna is researching the development of new drugs for acute myeloid leukaemia (blood cancer) with the support of Dr. Richard Moriggl. Current treatment options for this aggressive disease are very limited.

STAT5 is a key molecule in many solid and haematopoietic cancers and is particularly associated with the development and progression of acute myeloid leukaemia. As part of this fellowship, new compounds that inhibit STAT5 will be validated in vitro and in vivo as well as in preclinical studies.

Fellow: Dr Anna Orlova

Host: Prof. Dr Richard Moriggl
 

>> TOADng

Fast and locally high-resolution measurement of gas concentration distribution on the engine test bench

Competence Centre – The Virtual Vehicle Research Company – Styria

Bernhard Fischbacher and his colleagues from the Competence Centre – The Virtual Vehicle in the ‘Advanced Measurement and Fluid Flow Simulation’ working group are working in the field of gas measurement technology and spectroscopy. The TOADng (Turbine Optimisation and Diagnostics) project is further developing an optical measurement system for determining gas concentration distribution within the exhaust pipe in order to make it suitable for use on engine test benches. The concentration distribution within the exhaust pipe is one of the most important factors for optimising exhaust aftertreatment systems such as SCR for NOx reduction. The innovative approach of this measurement technology enables very high sampling rates and, for the first time, insights into the dynamic processes in the exhaust gas train. In addition, the measurement time per measurement point can be reduced from several hours to a few seconds, which means a huge cost reduction for these investigations.

Fellow: DI Bernhard Fischbacher, BSc.

Host: Univ.-Doz. Dr. Bernhard Brandstätter

Within the second submission deadline for the Spin-off Fellowships programme (23 February 2018 – 19 July 2018), seven applications out of a total of 30 submitted were recommended for funding by the evaluation committee. The recommendation was approved by the responsible ministry (BMBWF). The approved federal funding amounts to EUR 2.5 million.
 

>> CarboFeed

CO2-fixing yeast as animal feed

University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna

Michael Egermeier and Thomas Gaßler are both conducting research on industrially relevant yeast strains at the Department of Biotechnology at the University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna. Their work focuses on the development of a yeast platform that utilises the greenhouse gas CO₂ as a raw material. The fellowship will be used to further develop the production process for these yeast strains with a view to subsequently founding a company based on this technology. The sustainably produced yeast can then be used as a feed additive, replacing conventional and climate-damaging protein sources (e.g. soy flour) in animal feed.

Fellows: Dipl.-Ing. Michael Egermeier, Dipl.-Ing. Thomas Gaßler

Host: Univ. Prof. DI Dr Diethard Mattanovich
 

>> CellEctric Biotech

Development of an innovative filter (smartEDF) for the electrodynamic manipulation of biological material

AIT Austrian Institute of Technology GmbH - Vienna

Klemens Wassermann and his team at the Competence Unit Molecular Diagnostics of the Austrian Institute of Technology are developing new applications for diagnostics and biotechnology based on electrodynamic principles. One of the technologies developed in this context enables the specific and rapid purification of pathogens from blood in order to accelerate the diagnosis of sepsis. As part of the spin-off fellowship, a prototype is now being developed to demonstrate the applications shown on a laboratory scale and prepare for a spin-off.

Fellow: Mag. Klemens Wassermann

Host: Dr. Martin Jung
 

>> CURRATEC

New epoxy resin system with on-demand curing

Technical University - Vienna

Christoph Schnöll, Moritz Mitterbauer and Daniel Grunenberg will further develop frontal polymerisation technology as part of the ‘CURRATEC’ project (www.curratec.com) at the Institute of Applied Synthetic Chemistry at the Vienna University of Technology with a view to successful commercialisation. This innovative technology will be used to establish epoxy resin systems that can be cured highly efficiently in a very short time using light. This will greatly facilitate the production of fibre composite materials used, for example, in automotive and shipbuilding, in aerospace, and in wind energy. Instead of large ovens, in which the components sometimes have to be cured for days, only a small torch will be needed in future. Brief irradiation of a small area is sufficient to cure the entire component – even under water. In close cooperation with interested parties from industry, the already patented system is now to be adapted and optimised, taking into account the individual requirement profiles.

Fellows: DI Christoph Schnöll, DI Moritz Mitterbauer, Daniel Grunenberg, M.Sc

Host: Prof. DI Dr Robert Liska
 

>> FlowMe

Software for the automated analysis of flow cytometer data for the detection of cancer cells

Vienna University of Technology - Vienna

Markus Diem and Florian Kleber from the Computer Vision Lab at TU Vienna are developing a method for the automatic detection of cancer cells in bone marrow samples from leukaemia patients. For commercial exploitation, a software called FlowMe is being developed to help find the ideal therapy for each patient.

Fellows: Dr Markus Diem, Dr Florian Kleber

Host: Dr. Michael Reiter, Dr. Martin Kampel 
 

>> LightMatters

Continuous high-precision measurement of nanoparticles

Medical University of Graz - Styria

Christian Hill and Gerhard Prossliner from the Nanomedicine Working Group at the Chair of Biophysics are working with their team at the Gottfried Schatz Research Centre at the Medical University of Graz to develop the new OF2i measuring device technology (short for OptoFluidic Force Induction) for high-precision and continuous online characterisation of nanoparticles.

The active OF2i measurement principle allows, for the first time, the statistically relevant measurement of key functional parameters of these invisible, tiny particles in flow. This opens up new possibilities for exploiting the enormous application potential of these particles through research and sets new standards in industrial quality assurance and process control.

Optimised quality and reduced production costs are made possible, e.g. in pharmaceutical technology or biotechnology. Based on the existing laboratory demonstrator, a validated, automated and customer-installable laboratory measuring device prototype will be realised in the course of the project, which will be evaluated by various key customers in a real-world environment.

This prototype will provide the basis for near-series production for interested customers and thus lay the foundation for the commercial exploitation of OF2i technology within a high-tech spin-off manufacturing company.

Fellows: Dr Christian Hill, DI Gerhard Prossliner, BSc

Host: Assoz.-Prof. Dr Ruth Prassl
 

>> NewGen SLM Powder

New generation of stainless steel powder for enhanced additive manufacturing process

Graz University of Technology – Styria

Mateusz Skalon from the Institute of Materials Science, Joining and Forming at Graz University of Technology has developed a modification process for steel powders used in selective laser melting (SLM) that eliminates the need to support the printed components during the printing process.

This extends design freedom by enabling a unique feature of horizontal printing without supports. The process also allows for recycling the old powders and restoring their initial characteristics. With this unique technology, it is planned to enter the rapidly growing (27% per annum) market of additive manufacturing.

Fellow: Dr. Mateusz Skalon

Host: Univ.-Prof. DI Dr. Christof Sommitsch
 

>> Viwax

Lysophosphatidylcholine in use against American foulbrood

University of Graz - Styria

Foulbrood diseases are devastating bacterial diseases of honey bees that occur worldwide. Epidemic outbreaks cause immense economic damage to the honey industry and food production worldwide due to the pollination services provided by bees. Adult bees are immune due to a lipid-like natural substance found in their intestines, lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC). The aim of this project is to develop the patented invention of antibiotic-free foulbrood treatment with LPC, which is added to beeswax, to market maturity and to demonstrate the practical suitability and effectiveness of the method under real conditions.

Fellows: PD Dr Wolfgang Schühly, Dr Ulrike Riessberger-Gallé, Dr Javier Hernández López

Host: Prof. Dr Thomas Schmickl

>> ALDOX

Enzymatic yoghurt alternative and bioactive aldoic acids

University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences – Vienna

Bacteria-free yoghurt alternative

Marita Preims and Christian Leitner from the Food Biotechnology Division at the Institute of Food Technology at the University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences in Vienna are developing efficient, healthy and environmentally friendly production processes for bioactive molecules.

This is opening up new applications, such as the production of a bacteria-free yoghurt alternative. A bacteria-free yoghurt alternative is a new dairy product that can also be consumed by people with weakened immune systems. The funding will be used to further develop and test production processes and the resulting products with a view to commercialising them in a separate company in the future.

Fellows: DI Marita Preims & DI Dr Christian Leitner

Host: Dr Roland Ludwig
 

>> concreteX

Embroidered textile reinforcements for concrete components in engineering

University of Innsbruck – Tyrol

Building with textile concrete

Matthias Egger and Christoph Waltl from the Solid Construction and Bridge Engineering Division at the Institute of Construction and Materials Science are developing embroidered textile reinforcements for widespread use in concrete construction.

For commercial exploitation, the aim is to use them to reinforce existing bridge structures and in prefabricated construction. Small-scale tests, component tests, product samples and prototypes are now being produced to demonstrate feasibility. There is already concrete interest in using the new technology to reinforce an existing bridge.

Fellows: DI Matthias Egger, BSc. & DI Christoph Waltl, BSc.

Host: Dr.-Ing. Jürgen Feix & Dr. Thomas Bechtold
 

>> HyFish

Fish protection at hydroelectric power plants with electrified rope screens

University of Innsbruck – Tyrol

Effective fish protection

Barbara Brinkmeier from the Hydraulic Engineering department at the Institute for Infrastructure will use the funding to further develop an electric fish protection cable screen and make it marketable. As part of the implementation of the European Water Framework Directive, suitable fish protection devices must be installed at all hydropower plants. The fish protection device developed at the University of Innsbruck is now being implemented in demonstration plants. With the operational experience gained and the relevant entrepreneurial know-how, the technology will then be commercially marketed.

Fellow: DI Dr. Barbara Brinkmeier

Host: Dr.-Ing. Markus Aufleger
 

>> Immuno QCM

Functionalisation of a quartz microbalance for the selective detection of biomolecules

University of Vienna – Vienna

Optimising diagnostic and therapeutic procedures

Thomas Werzer and Michael Nardai are working in the Sensor Technology and Rapid Analysis Group at the Faculty of Chemistry (headed by Univ.-Prof. Mag. Dr. Peter Lieberzeit) to develop a sensor system that will make the treatment of autoimmune diseases more efficient. This form of treatment is currently carried out using highly selective filters. In the application to be commercialised, the quality of the filter effect is to be monitored during the ongoing process. The aim is to indicate the optimal time for the filter replacement required in this process. In a first step, a demonstrator is to be developed to illustrate the feasibility of this project.

Fellow: Mag. Dr. Thomas Werzer & Mag. Dr. Michael Matthias Nardai

Host: Dr. Peter Lieberzeit
 

>> MoBraille

Further development of a ring-shaped, mobile Braille display to market maturity as a basis for a spin-off for IP exploitation

Vienna University of Technology – Vienna

Braille to go

The idea for the MoBraille project, which aims to revolutionise the usability of Braille for modern electronic media, was born at TU Wien. Prof. Wolfgang Zagler and his team, Istvan Déak and Michael Treml (Fellows of the Spin-off Fellowship), are developing a new type of Braille reader.

‘It has been known for decades that the question of the optimal Braille display has not been satisfactorily resolved,’ says Wolfgang Zagler. ‘There have been various approaches – with electromagnetically controlled movable pins, piezo elements and other technologies – but all these concepts had their disadvantages.’ Some displays consume a lot of power or have a fairly limited lifespan; they are suitable for office use at best, but are not portable, technically complicated and therefore usually very expensive.

With ‘MoBraille’, Braille is no longer displayed on a fixed line. Instead, the user scans the inside of a rotating ring. Similar to a computer mouse, the ring can be touched and dragged across the table surface. The index finger is placed inside the ring, where the letters are felt as they are formed with each rotation of the ring. This creates the impression of an infinitely long line when reading.

Fellow: István Deák, MSc. & DI Michael Treml

Host: DDDr. Thomas Angeli
 

>> MoldSonics

Ultrasound-based process monitoring in injection moulding

Johannes Kepler University Linz – Upper Austria

Monitoring injection moulding

Bernhard Praher from the Institute for Polymer Injection Moulding Technology and Process Automation at Johannes Kepler University Linz is developing innovative ultrasound-based sensor technology for plastics processing. A prototype system is to be developed and tested in industrial practice for monitoring and controlling one of the most important processes in plastics manufacturing: injection moulding.

This non-invasive measurement allows a wide range of product- and process-specific parameters to be determined during the manufacturing process, thereby helping to avoid rejects and significantly reduce production costs.

Fellow: DI Dr. Bernhard Praher

Host: Dr. Georg Steinbichler
 

>> PiTech

Application-specific colour and functional pigments

University of Innsbruck – Tyrol

New colour pigments

Chemist Daniel Schildhammer has further developed inorganic colour and functional pigments at the University of Innsbruck. These are now being tested for use in paints, coatings, plastics and building materials with a view to commercialisation through a start-up company.

Unlike current commercial pigments, those developed in Innsbruck are made from harmless materials, are generally less expensive and also have the optical properties required for industrial applications.

Fellow: Dr. Daniel Schildhammer, MSc.

Host: Dr. Hubert Huppertz
 

>> ZKS Separation Technology

Further development of a density separation process and opening up markets for this processing technology

Montanuniversität Leoben – Styria

New plant concept for wet density separation of waste fractions

Daniel Schwabl and Markus Bauer have developed a robust, compact and efficient plant concept at the Montanuniversität Leoben for wet density separation, in particular of waste plastics from mixed waste fractions. Due to increased EU recycling quotas for plastics (from 30% in 2018 to 50% by 2025 for packaging) and the Chinese import ban, the technology can tap into unused plastic potential for recycling and thus make a valuable contribution to the efficient use of resources. The next step is to bring the technology to market maturity through detailed engineering of a mobile demonstration plant and to prepare for commercialisation in a company by developing the relevant start-up skills.

Fellow: DI Dr. Markus Bauer & DI Daniel Schwabl

Host: Dr.-Ing. Markus Lehner