This year, the Institute for Transport Studies once again took part successfully in the Long Night of Research, Austria’s largest event for science and innovation. We used the opportunity to showcase current research methods to a broad audience through our virtual reality lab.

At the heart of the presentation was a scientifically grounded simulation of interactions between cyclists and pedestrians on shared spaces. With VR headsets and a bicycle simulator, visitors were able to actively experience complex traffic situations and potential conflict scenarios in a controlled environment. The aim of the installation was to make the importance of evidence-based urban and streetscape design for the safety of all road users tangible.

The event met with a great response: numerous interested visitors—from young people to professional audiences—took the opportunity to engage directly with our researchers about the future of urban mobility.

Special thanks go to our dedicated on-site team—Liting Yuan, Franz-Xaver Rupprecht, Matthias Altmann, and Jannik Luca Barth. Their commitment until midnight made it possible to convey transport research content to a large audience in an interactive yet scientifically rigorous way.

04.05.2026