Science communication - CITIZEN SCIENCE
Citizen Science is a research method in which “citizen scientists”, i.e. interested laypersons of all ages, make an active contribution to research projects or carry them out independently. It is an enriching experience for both scientists and non-scientists and makes a significant contribution to the results of research.
The Citizen Science Network Austria offers a central platform for citizen science projects as well as information and networking opportunities with its website “Österreich forscht”. The mdw has become a member of the network in 2025.
The Research Support Office provides support and information on Citizen Science and Young Science and regularly refers to events and current funding opportunities.
Funding Opportunities
NEW CALL FOR CITIZEN SCIENCE PROJECTS WITH SCHOOLS
OeAD: Sparkling Science 2.0 - Deadline 30.10.2026
+Information Event on 01.09.2026, 14:00 – 15:30 and 24.09.2026, 15:00-16:30
Citizen Science Award - Deadline 20.11.2026
Each year, the Citizen Science Award invites school classes, youth groups, families, and individuals to contribute to current citizen science projects. Attractive cash and in-kind prizes await the most dedicated participants. Interested projects can apply each fall to participate the following year.
Trainings on Citizen Science im autumn 2026 (in German):
- Citizen Science - Forschung und Third Mission
04.11.2026, 13:00 - 17:00, Fortbildung für Forschende aller Disziplinen ab MA-Level
Anmeldung bis 31.10.2026 - Einführung in Citizen Science, 03.11.2026, 10:00 - 12:00
- Zusammenarbeit mit besonderen Zielgrummen, 05.11.2026, 10:00 - 11:30
- Freiwilligenmanagement in Citizen Science, 06.11.2026, 10:00 - 11:30
- Kommunikation in Citizen Science, 09.11.2026, 10:00 - 11:30
- Evaluation von Citizen Science-Projekten, 11.11.2026, 10:00 - 11:30
- Ideenwerkstatt, 12.11.2026, 10:00 - 11:30
Further Funding Opportunities
- FWF Top Citizen Science - for ongoing FWF projects to involve Citizens in research
Projects at the mdw
- Music Therapy and Society - Research Focus at the Music Therapy Research Center Vienna (WZMF)
- Reverse Ethnomusicology: Migrant musicians as researchers (since 2023)
- My Tune: Music Therapy from OUR Perspectives (since
- Your Smile. Eine Musikwerkstatt auf der Neuroonkologie der Kinderklinik (2021-2023)
- Klingender Gemeindebau (2021 - 2022)
- Sounding Remembrance 1938 - 2018
- Musik ohne Grenzen (2015-2017)
- Digital Musicianship (2014-2016)
- You Feel, I Listen, We Make Music – A Dialogue (2012 – 2015)
Contact
Mag.a Anna Wukovits-Zethner
Tel. +43 1 711 55-6113
zethner@mdw.ac.at
Mag.a Therese Kaufmann, MA
Tel. +43 1 711 55-6100
kaufmann-th@mdw.ac.at