Universities provide impetus and help shape social, economic and technological developments and therefore bear a great deal of responsibility. In addition to the two "classic" tasks of every university - namely research and teaching - they also fulfil a "third mission", namely the targeted and structured transfer of their knowledge beyond the student body to society and the economy.

The third mission encompasses the following areas as a cross-cutting theme:

• Technology transfer & innovation
• Continuing education and lifelong learning
• Social engagement in connection with regional circumstances

On this website you will find a highlight project from the past year for each area as well as further information and ongoing third mission activities at Vetmeduni.

Vetmeduni researchers as science ambassadors

Science ambassadors provide insights into their day-to-day research, talk about their careers and answer questions from schoolchildren throughout Austria. Today, over 480 personalities from science and research - including researchers from Vetmeduni - are already taking part in the BMBWF's voluntary initiative. The aim is not only to allow pupils to share their expertise, but above all to inspire them - and to break down the barrier between science and society.

Learn more about science ambassadors

Science and democracy: strengthening trust with DNAustria

Since 2024, the Vetmeduni has been actively involved in the information platform ‘Entdecke.DNAustria’, which bundles all science and democracy education offers and makes them available to students, parents and educators with just a few clicks. The BMBWF initiative to strengthen trust in science and democracy aims to get young people interested in research and counteract the widespread scepticism towards science.

DNAustria platform