Christian Koeberl
Celebrating Christian Koeberl’s remarkable career, his contributions, and the new opportunities ahead.
Thank You for an Unforgettable Symposium!
Organizers
Sponsors
Your contributions help us honor Christian’s legacy and bring this event to life. Thank you!
Organizing Committee: Toni Schulz, Ludovic Ferriere, Dona Jalufka, Lidia Pittarello, Norbert J. Mauser, Dieter Mader
Christian´s Key milestones
Ph.D. in Cosmochemistry
Christian Koeberl completed his doctoral studies at the University of Graz, specializing in cosmochemistry. His research laid the foundation for his future work in impact cratering and planetary geology.
Antarctica Service Medal
He received the prestigious Antarctica Service Medal from the United States for his significant contributions to Antarctic expeditions, studying meteorites and impact structures in extreme conditions, advancing the understanding of planetary processes.
Fulbright Visiting Scholar
Christian was selected as a Fulbright Visiting Scholar at the Lunar and Planetary Institute and NASA’s Johnson Space Center. During this time, he collaborated on groundbreaking research in planetary science and impact crater analysis.
START-Preis Recipient
Christian was awarded Austria’s START-Preis, one of the country’s most prestigious scientific awards, recognizing his innovative research in impact geology and cosmochemistry, further cementing his reputation as a global expert.
OEAW Full Member
Became a Full Member of the Division of Mathematics and Natural Sciences at the Austrian Academy of Sciences (OEAW), recognizing outstanding contributions to scientific research and academia.
Asteroid Named After Köberl
Asteroid (15963) Koeberl was named in his honor, recognizing his exceptional contributions to planetary science and impact research. In the same year, he was elected a full member of the Austrian Academy of Sciences.
Barringer Medal
Christian received the Barringer Medal from the Meteoritical Society, acknowledging his significant contributions to the study of meteorite impacts and cratering processes, a cornerstone of his scientific legacy.
Full Professorship
He was appointed as a full professor of impact research and planetary geology at the University of Vienna. This role allowed him to shape the next generation of scientists while continuing his own pioneering research.
Director General of the Natural History Museum Vienna
Christian became the Director General and scientific CEO of the Natural History Museum in Vienna, where he served for a decade, transforming the institution into a hub for scientific exploration and public engagement.
Meteoritical Society’s Service Award
In recognition of his lifelong dedication to impact research and his service to the scientific community, Köberl was awarded the Meteoritical Society’s Service Award, highlighting his influence on the field and its future direction.
Austrian Cross of Honour for Science and Art, 1st Class
Christian was honored with this prestigious award, one of the highest distinctions of the Republic of Austria, for his outstanding contributions to science, his impact as a geochemist and impact researcher, and his efforts to inspire public interest in natural sciences. (read more)
Christian´s Legacy
1
Scientific Publications*
1
Research Expeditions*
1
Students Supervised*
1
Published Books*
1
Talks & Conferences*
*Status as of Feb 2025
Christian´s Key moments
In preparation for Christian’s Celebration Symposium, we invited friends, colleagues, and collaborators to share their favorite photos—capturing key moments, milestones, and memories from his journey. We collected over 600 photos, which were displayed during the Symposium.
Click the button below to access the full Tribute Photo Gallery in the secure area and explore the entire collection of images from Christian’s career.
The images on this website are sourced from publicly available platforms or private collections of the Organizing Committee, colleagues, friends, and family. We have credited sources where known and ensured copyright compliance. For details, see Photo Credits.
Science is not just a career; it’s a journey of curiosity, discovery, and impact.
Celebration Program 18.02.2025
The symposium will be held in English and can also be accessed remotely via video.
Opening words by the Organizing Commitee
Dr. Toni Schulz, University of Vienna
Univ. Prof. Dr. Norbert J. Mauser, Wolfgang Pauli Institute Vienna
Welcome address by the Rectorate
Univ. Prof. Dr. Dr. h.c. Heinz Engl, former Rector of the University of Vienna
Welcome address by the Faculty
Univ. Prof. Dr. Rainer Abart, Dean of the Faculty of Earth Sciences, Geography, and Astronomy at the University of Vienna
Christian as a Scientist
emer. Univ. Prof. HR Dr. phil. Hans Peter Schönlaub
Christian at the Museum
Dr. Franz Brandstätter, Natural History Museum Vienna
Christian and Drilling Projects
emer. Univ. Prof. Dr. Werner Piller
Coffee Break
Time to recharge with refreshments and network with fellow attendees.
Christian and Impact Crater Adventures
emer. Univ. Prof. Dr. Uwe Reimold
Christian in Coldigioco
Dr. Alessandro Montanari
Christian as a Supervisor, Colleague, and Friend
Dr. Ludovic Ferrière, WPI and Natural History Museums Vienna and Abu Dhabi
Speakers’ Corner
Interactive segment with live greetings from in-person and remote participants
Closing Words by Christian
Christian will be invited to share his thoughts and reflections, offering spontaneous remarks to conclude the evening
Dinner Buffet and Party
Open-end celebration with food, drinks, and informal conversations.
Symposium Guidelines & Remote Participation
Please click below to access the secure page with essential event details, including on-site participation guidelines and the video link for remote access to the symposium. The video symposium call will start on February 18, 2025, at 14:30.
To access the secure page, please use the passcode provided via email.
The pursuit of knowledge never truly retires.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The Celebration Symposium for Christian Koeberl will take place on 18th February 2024 at the University of Vienna, specifically at the Department of Lithospheric Research, Geozentrum Lecture Hall 6 (Hörsaal 6).
Address:
Josef-Holaubek-Platz 2 (UZA II)
1090 Vienna, Austria.
No, Christian does not know about the celebration—it’s a surprise! The event is planned to coincide with his birthday on 18th February. His wife, Dona Jalufka, is fully aware and has been closely involved with the Organizing Team to make this day unforgettable.
We kindly ask everyone to help us keep the surprise!
Yes, if you haven’t already confirmed your attendance via email, please contact the Organizing Committee via email (toni.schulz(@)univie.ac.at)
So far, more than 100 people from all over the world have already confirmed their attendance—don’t miss out on this special celebration!
The celebration begins at 2:00 PM with a welcome reception and addresses by esteemed speakers, followed by a symposium exploring Christian Koeberl’s remarkable journey in academia, research, and beyond.
The event will conclude with a dinner buffet and party starting at 6:00 PM, offering food, drinks, music, and informal conversations.
Yes, there will be a Speakers’ Corner open for both in-person and video participants to share memories or thoughts about Christian. We recommend keeping your talk to 3–5 minutes to allow time for everyone who wishes to participate.
The hotel nearest to the venue is:
Hotel Bellevue – Located in Vienna’s Alsergrund district, this historic hotel offers comfortable accommodations with easy access to public transportation.
For more information, please visit: https://bellevuehotel.at.For other hotel options please visit www.wien.info/en
The nearest airport is Vienna International Airport (VIE), located approximately 20 km from the venue, which can be reached as follows:
Taxi: Taxis are available outside the arrivals hall.
- Duration: ~25–30 minutes
- Cost: €60–€70
Public Transport (CAT or S-Bahn):
- From the airport, take either the City Airport Train (CAT) (16 min) or the S-Bahn (S7) (25 min) to Wien Mitte/Landstraße.
- Transfer to the U4 subway (direction: Heiligenstadt) and exit at Spittelau.
- Walk 5 minutes to the venue.
If you’d like to bring a guest, please confirm providing their details by Jan 15th 2025. Due to venue capacity, we may have to limit the number of additional attendees.
Yes, children are welcome. However, please note that there may not be specific facilities for children at the venue.
There is no formal dress code—dress comfortably yet polished, suitable for a day of engaging discussions and celebration.
Yes, parts of the event, including the symposium and closing remarks, will be live-streamed. Details on how to join remotely will be shared closer to the event date.
Share your photos, videos, or memories of Christian for a gallery that will be shared with Christian. Your contributions will help make the celebration truly special. Use the photo upload form to share!
For any other inquiries, feel free to reach out to the Organization Team at toni.schulz(@)univie.ac.at.
The Organizing Committee includes Toni Schulz, Ludovic Ferriere, Lidia Pittarello, Norbert J. Mauser, and Dieter Mader, working closely with Christian’s wife, Dona Jalufka, along with a dedicated team of colleagues and friends to ensure this event is a heartfelt and memorable celebration.
Location
Location:
University of Vienna
Department of Lithospheric Research
Geozentrum Lecture Hall 6 (Hörsaal 6)
Address:
Josef-Holaubek-Platz 2 (UZA II)
1090 Vienna
Austria
