Centre for Sport Science and University Sports
Research Topics/Departments
Hans Kainz
Research Focus
Our research aims to unravel how anatomical structures, movement strategies, and mechanobiological processes interact to shape human mobility and musculoskeletal development. We combine 3D motion capture, medical imaging, and muscle activity analysis with advanced musculoskeletal simulations, multi-scale modeling, and machine learning. Current work includes predicting surgical outcomes in children with cerebral palsy (FWF project) and forecasting bone growth through mechanobiological simulation and real-time biofeedback of growth plate loading (ERC project). By linking fundamental insights with clinical needs, we develop personalized, evidence-based strategies to improve diagnosis, treatment, and long-term movement health.
Research environment
Our research environment brings together expertise in biomechanics, mechanobiology, data science, and clinical practice to support highly translational work. State-of-the-art facilities enable 3D motion analysis, medical imaging, and large-scale computational simulations. Ongoing FWF and ERC projects exemplify our integrative approach, combining experimental data, multi-scale modeling, and predictive analytics to address pediatric movement disorders and growth deformities. Close collaboration with clinicians, therapists, and international partners fosters a dynamic setting where innovative methods are rapidly validated and transformed into actionable tools that advance personalized healthcare.
Expectations towards postdoctoral fellows in this programme
Postdoctoral fellows are expected to contribute proactively to our interdisciplinary research by driving independent projects while collaborating closely with team members and clinical partners. They should demonstrate strong expertise in biomechanics, computational modeling, or related fields, and be capable of integrating experimental data with advanced analytical methods. Fellows are encouraged to publish in leading journals, present at international conferences, and support the mentoring of students. They are also expected to engage in grant writing, foster external collaborations, and help translate research outcomes into clinically relevant and innovative solutions.
Possible research themes or topics for postdoctoral projects
Potential postdoctoral projects span the integration of experimental measurements with advanced computational methods to address clinically relevant questions in pediatric and adult movement disorders. One project focuses on patellofemoral instability, combining dynamic imaging with subject-specific musculoskeletal models to identify mechanisms of joint maltracking and guide treatment planning. Another project investigates lower limb fractures in children by linking 3D gait analysis with musculoskeletal simulations to quantify loading patterns, assess impaired movement strategies, and support rehabilitation and prevention. Additional topics may include growth-related deformities, surgery outcome prediction, and real-time biomechanical feedback systems.
Weblink for further information:
https://neuromechanics.univie.ac.at/
Email: hans.kainz(at)univie.ac.at
BARBARA WESSNER
Research Focus
Our working group at the Centre for Sport Science and University Sports investigates the molecular mechanisms underlying the body’s response to different exercise regimes and nutritional supplements. Current research projects focus on age-associated changes in the extracellular matrix of skeletal muscle, immune–muscle cell interactions mediated by exosomes, and biomarker discovery for assessing physical load and recovery. Our studies address a wide range of target groups, from young to older individuals and from inactive persons to highly trained athletes.
An emerging research priority of the group is women’s health, with a particular emphasis on understanding physiological and molecular changes associated with menopause. This includes exploring how menopausal transitions affect muscle adaptation, recovery capacity, and responses to exercise and nutritional interventions.
Research environment
Our research group offers a dynamic and supportive environment for postdoctoral researchers. You will have full access to a well-equipped molecular biology laboratory enabling analyses from gene expression to extracellular vesicle characterization. Close collaborations with clinical partners allow translational research across diverse populations. In addition, state-of-the-art systems for assessing physical activity, performance, and recovery are available, complemented by indoor and outdoor sports facilities for exercise interventions. The group is embedded in an interdisciplinary network through the “Health in Society” research network and maintains a strong international network in exercise immunology, providing excellent opportunities for collaboration, professional development, and the integration of innovative research perspectives.
Expectations towards postdoctoral fellows in this programme
We expect postdoctoral fellows to have a strong background in sport, nutrition or biological science and solid experience with applied molecular biology methods. Candidates should be motivated to advance the research field and contribute innovative ideas to ongoing and future projects. A collaborative mindset, reliability, and a strong social component in daily team interactions are essential.
Possible research themes or topics for postdoctoral projects
- Molecular mechanisms of muscle/immune interactions during exercise, recovery, and aging, with a special focus on exosomes
and/or - Impact of exercise and nutrition on health and well-being during the menopausal transition
Weblink for further information:
https://ucrisportal.univie.ac.at/en/persons/barbara-wessner/
Email: barbara.wessner(at)univie.ac.at