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Dr Hans Riegel-Awards presented for the 8th time in Wiener Neustadt

published on:
06/07/2026
image:
© Tschank
On 16 June, the Dr Hans Riegel Specialist Award ceremony for outstanding final-year projects (ABA) took place on site in collaboration with the University of Applied Sciences Wiener Neustadt. Twelve school-leavers from Lower Austria, Burgenland and Carinthia were honoured by the specialist jury in the subjects of biology, physics, computer science and mathematics.

During the awards ceremony, the expert jury praised the high quality of the submitted projects and the great dedication shown by the A-level students. Particular mention was made of their scientific curiosity, their careful examination of complex issues and the high degree of independence they demonstrated in carrying out their projects.
In the subject of Physics, Magnus Zlattinger-Wallner from Peraugymnasium Villach was honoured for his project ‘Magnetohydrodynamic Propulsion: Function and Application’. In it, he explored a technology that is used in particular in space travel and in innovative propulsion systems.
First place in Mathematics went to Leonardo Leschanz for his project ‘Secure Exchange of Secrets: An Analysis and Implementation of the Diffie–Hellman Key Exchange’. His project dealt with a central method of modern cryptography and demonstrated its practical application in the digital exchange of information.
In the Computer Science category, first prize went to Nikolaus Koller from BG/BRG Keimgasse. In his paper on quantum computing, he examined the fundamentals of this future-oriented technology and explored its potential as well as the current challenges it faces.

First place in the Biology category went to Julius Weißmann from the Bundesrealgymnasium Gröhrmühlgasse in Wiener Neustadt for his project ‘Microbe-induced CaCO₃ precipitation (MICP) for soil optimisation’. The jury was particularly impressed by the relevance and topicality of the subject, as well as the professional scientific approach. For his research, the pupil independently took samples, carried out analyses and explored a field of research that holds great potential for sustainable applications in agriculture and the environmental sector.

Receiving the Dr Hans Riegel Special Prize not only recognises the outstanding achievements of the winners but also grants them access to the MINT TANK support programme. This alumni programme offers a wide range of support opportunities, networking possibilities and interdisciplinary events for young STEM talents.