From Practice to Research – with a Global Perspective

Köttl began her career as an occupational therapist in acute psychiatry and geriatrics in Zurich. Early on, she became interested in how technology and social frameworks shape the health and participation of older adults. Her international career has taken her to Belgium, Switzerland, Israel, Togo, and Bangladesh.
As part of the EU-funded EuroAgeism project, she completed her PhD at Bar-Ilan University in Tel Aviv, focusing on age discrimination and the use of technology in later life. These experiences have profoundly shaped her academic outlook – as has her collaboration with policy organisations such as the EU Fundamental Rights Agency, the United Nations (Population Unit of the UNECE), and AGE Platform Europe.

Research Focus: Digitalisation, Equity, Participation

Today, Köttl’s research centres on digital health, social participation, and the fight against ageism. Within the international CROB project, she explores how family caregivers of stroke survivors can be better supported – aiming to develop digital tools that ease their burden and strengthen their resilience.
A second research focus lies on integrating artificial intelligence into healthcare. “Bias in AI systems can reproduce or even amplify inequalities – including age discrimination,” Köttl explains. Her research therefore asks: How can AI systems be designed to act inclusively, fairly, and ethically – particularly for older and vulnerable groups?

Teaching with Purpose: Diversity and Real-World Relevance

As programme director at IMC Krems, Köttl envisions a future-oriented, practice-driven, and socially relevant curriculum. For her, sustainability is not only ecological but also about creating fair and resilient healthcare systems. A particularly noteworthy element is the practice project, which accompanies students throughout their studies: in interdisciplinary teams, they develop and implement solutions for real social challenges. For Köttl, this is the ideal combination of science, practice, and social impact.

Inspiration through Exchange

Köttl describes her students as a constant source of inspiration: “They encourage me to stay curious and to keep adopting new perspectives.” Equally important to her is maintaining personal balance – her children, yoga, and hiking provide her with strength and grounding.

A Researcher with Vision

In her new role as Research Professor, Köttl will work even more intensively at the intersection of technology, equity, and health. Her goal remains clear: to make healthcare not only more efficient, but also fairer and more inclusive – and in doing so, to contribute to a sustainable healthcare system for the future.