The large lecture hall at Technikerstraße 13b reached capacity on Monday evening. More than 250 guests from science, industry and public infrastructure, as well as students, were in attendance and took advantage of the opportunity for interdisciplinary exchange.
"I was very pleased with the turnout and the interest shown in the railway industry. It was also overwhelming, of course, that so many people had travelled such long distances to attend the inaugural lecture."
From topics such as the Brenner Base Tunnel to the challenges facing the railways in the era of climate change, and quiet tracks as a goal, Professor Loy provided a practical insight into his main areas of research: durability, stability and vibration protection. With his clear and passionate presentation style, he conveyed technical content in a way that was understandable for listeners of all levels of knowledge. His enthusiasm for railways was infectious and rubbed off on the audience – providing impetus for new ideas and collaborations.
Harald Loy's research focuses on railway infrastructure, with a particular emphasis on superstructure and track. He is following in the footsteps of Professors Erich Kopp and Günther Prager.
In future, the chair will pursue a composite research approach combining track measurements, laboratory tests, theoretical calculations and numerical simulations. The professorship complements the research groups at the Universities of Graz and Vienna and will also focus on sustainability in the future – with the aim of strengthening the railway as a central pillar of climate-friendly mobility in the future.
"For me, environmental protection encompasses not only clean energy from hydropower, but also noise and vibration protection and the goal of quiet tracks. This is also important in order to increase public acceptance of the railway."
Professor Loy is thus addressing the railway infrastructure of the future from various perspectives – we can look forward to the upcoming research findings with excitement.
He emphasises: "Railways are the future. I want to help shape this future - with a passion for technology."
