Born in Linz, the distinguished legal scholar remained closely associated with the JKU throughout his lifetime. He studied law and economics both here at the JKU and in Vienna, earning his doctorate degree in 1977. He was a university assistant professor at the Institute for Civil Law, Labor and Social Law (JKU) up until completing his post-doctorate degree in 1984.

His career took him from Linz to Klagenfurt (1986), and then to Humboldt University in Berlin (1996). In 2003, Prof. Rebhahn was a professor at the University of Vienna (Institute for Labor and Social Law). He became the University Council Chairman at the Alpen Adria University Klagenfurt in 2013.

Among his most important contributions in social law are works on the constitutionality of different age limits for men and women. Univ. Prof. Rebhahn was also a leading expert in the field of conflicts of law issues.  As an expert for the EU Commission, Prof. Rebhahn was also involved in international research.

Prof. Rebhahn was presented with the Golden Cross of Merit by the government of Carinthia for his work, particularly his review for the government about social benefits for asylum seekers and protection status.

With Univ. Prof. Robert Rebhahn’s passing, academia has lost a distinguished scholar, legal experts and a wonderful person. His passing will be keenly felt by the JKU and the university will continue to honor his memory.