The respected statistician managed the institute from 1968 to 1973 as scientific director and laid the foundations for extensive empirical social science research in Austria during this time. Using a mathematical model he developed, Bruckmann made the world's first election forecasts possible, and presented these to an audience of millions on the Austrian Public Broadcaster (ORF) during the 1966 National Council elections.
The Institute will fondly remember Gerhart Bruckmann's merits.