Dr. Elke Welp-Park, M.A.

Recent presentations

Explorative Datenanalyse zum Einfluss von strategischer Leitung auf universitäre Performanz (im Rahmen des Projekts "Leader, Manager. Mediator. Governance, Performance und Leadership an österreichischen Universitäten")
BMFWF, Vienna, 09/03/2026

The evolution of the professoriate. Historical perspectives on status groups and hierarchies at Austrian universities
Research Colloquium, University for Continuing Education Krems, 15/04/2026
Abstract: Following two main research questions – how were university teachers paid and how durable were their contracts – the historical analysis allows to show how the professorial chair, and with it a corresponding hierarchy and academic career structure (situated before and below the professoriate), evolved. By examining the emergence of the “public lecture” [lectura publica] out of the rupture of the medieval regency system, the contribution sheds light on how the academic profession came into being – carved out in tandem between political authorities and university members, as is argued. The focus on the medieval and early modern university allows to show “different” conceptualisations of university, that are also relevant with regard to current and possible future configurations of higher education. Ultimately, the contribution focuses on how prevalent socio-economic paradigms imprinted on and shaped Austrian universities. It is also a reflection on the “public good” – the res publica – and its relation to higher education.

Teaching

• EU policies in higher education, research, and innovation, MARIHE – Systems in Transition 1.
• The organisational structure and governance of higher education, Course 1a: Certificate Program “Managing conflict and effective dispute resolution in Higher Education”.