Focus

The point of no return

For a long time, nothing happens – until everything changes in a flash. Whether in ecosystems or in democracy: tipping points mark the moment of no return. Researchers at the University of Vienna show how to spot them in time.
2. September 2026
Microorganisms and climate change

How healthy are our soils?

Soils provide us with food, store carbon and play a key role in the climate system. Andreas Richter from the University of Vienna is to receive more than ten million euros from the Novo Nordisk Foundation for his research on the microorganisms beneath our feet. We met him to talk about soils, tipping points and the responsibility of science.
21. July 2026
Heat and performance

Gone are the summers of yore?

Hot days and tropical nights now mark Austria's longest days of the year. What impact does extreme heat have on our mental and physical performance? University of Vienna psychologist Julia Reiter, cognitive scientist Claus Lamm and sports and nutrition specialist Daniel König discuss the science behind heat and health, as well as strategies for adapting to the new normal.
11. May 2026
Democracy under pressure

Democracy: are we at a tipping point?

A glance back at history shows that democracy cannot be taken for granted. Historian Claudia Kraft and political scientist Fabio Wolkenstein, both at the University of Vienna, explain how to recognise the early warning signs of democratic backsliding – and what keeps democracy resilient.
10. March 2026
Mathematical Physics

The strange maths behind freezing water, pandemics and rumours

To many, maths seems detached from everyday life. University of Vienna mathematician Nathanaël Berestycki shows why this could not be more wrong: Maths is a powerful tool to make sense of common but surprisingly connected phenomena – from freezing water to social phenomena and pandemics. Even so, blind spots remain that keep him awake at night.
12. April 2023
Tipping points in mathematics, ecology and geography

Today in front of the abyss, tomorrow one step ahead?

All complex systems can reach critical threshold values. If they are exceeded, this usually has grave and irreversible consequences. Understanding these tipping points is essential to saving the relationship between the planet and humans. We have interviewed the mathematicians Sara Merino-Aceituno and Henk Bruin, the ecologist Christina Kaiser and the geographer Harald Sterly.