Studying and Researching: RADIUS on the International Stage
Natalia Trudova bei der IRIS Konferenz 2026 | ©FH JOANNEUM
Artificial intelligence is fundamentally changing how companies operate. At the same time, new legal requirements — such as the European AI Act — are coming into force, establishing binding frameworks for the use of AI systems. This is increasing the demand for professionals who can combine technical understanding with legal expertise. The research project RADIUS at FH JOANNEUM is positioned precisely at this intersection. The project develops applications around generative AI and large language models (LLMs) in the areas of software engineering and IT security, and transfers them into practice together with industry partners.
Research and Study Go Hand in Hand
An interdisciplinary team from the Institute of Software Design and Security — consisting of Helmut Lindner, Sabine Proßnegg, and master’s student Natalia Trudova from the “IT Law and Management” degree programme — presented initial results of the project at the International Legal Informatics Symposium (IRIS) from 18 to 21 February 2026 in Salzburg. IRIS is one of the most established European specialist conferences in the field of legal informatics, bringing together experts from law, information technology, and business. The active involvement of students in presenting current research there highlights the close integration of study, research, and international academic exchange at FH JOANNEUM.
AI Act: New Requirements for Companies
The paper “Practical Implications of the AI Act for Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises in Austria” focused on the concrete effects of European AI regulation. Going forward, companies will be required, among other things, to classify the AI systems they use, assess risks, document measures, and clearly define responsibilities.
These developments are also changing the requirements for professionals. Alongside technical expertise, knowledge of legal frameworks, governance structures, and risk management is becoming increasingly important.
From Theory to Practice
Mag.Mag. Natalia Trudova illustrated in her presentation how large language models can be integrated into business processes in a legally compliant manner. Topics covered included transparency and traceability of AI systems, appropriate methods for risk assessment, and organisational and technical measures for secure deployment. Additionally, the presentation showed how the use of certified models can contribute to risk reduction.The approaches presented are based on ongoing projects and demonstrate how theoretical concepts are translated into concrete applications. The subsequent discussion with specialists from the DACH region focused in particular on the practical implementation of the AI Act in everyday business operations, the distribution of roles among the parties involved, and the handling of sensitive data and high-risk AI systems. It became clear that successful AI projects always require an interplay of technology, law, and organisation.
Skills for Future Professional Fields
The RADIUS project makes visible how requirements and professional profiles in the IT sector are evolving. Knowledge of artificial intelligence forms an important foundation, but must increasingly be complemented by competencies in regulation, risk assessment, and responsible technology design.
Students are directly involved in these developments, working on questions that arise from real business practice. This connection provides early insight into the fields of work where interdisciplinary knowledge around AI will play a central role in the future.
Why This Is Relevant for a Degree Programme
Artificial intelligence is one of the central future topics in business and society. At the same time, it is becoming clear that successful applications do not rest on technical expertise alone, but require a solid understanding of legal frameworks and organisational processes. Degree programmes at the intersection of IT, law, and management address these requirements, enabling students to engage with current developments in a practice-oriented way and to be involved in real projects.
Experience AI Live: AI Summit 2026
At the AI Summit Styria in Kapfenberg in October 2026, current developments in artificial intelligence will be examined from different perspectives — from technical applications to legal questions. The event brings together experts from research and practice and demonstrates how AI solutions are implemented in concrete terms. At the same time, it highlights which competencies will be in demand in this field in the future and what role interdisciplinary knowledge plays in this.
