The Duck
ISTA Alumni
Ducks are central to the ISTA experience. No, really. A flock of ducks have turned the pond in front of Central Building into their own lab. While the Institute has no official mascot, the duck has slowly become a symbol of ISTA alumni over the years, and it really is a fitting symbol for the community:
Ducks are social animals that live in large groups. ISTA is a rapidly growing institution with more than 80 research groups. Researchers are encouraged to bridge disciplines and work collaboratively across the Institute for the best possible results.
Ducks can “quack” differently depending on where they are from. ISTA alumni come from 76 countries around the world, and currently live and work across five continents.
Ducks have a unique and special role in science. Some computer scientists use rubber ducks as a sounding board for their work, with the ducks serving as critical partners in identifying mistakes or flaws. The ISTA alumni community is full of bright minds, connected by their shared institution and a love for science. It is okay—and even encouraged—to lean on and rely on each other every once in a while.
Send in a photo with your ISTA alumni duck to alumni@ista.ac.at. The best submissions will be featured on social media or in a future newsletter!
