Aerospace law expert joins UCalgary Law
The Faculty of Law is pleased to welcome Dr. Stefan-Michael Wedenig as an Assistant Professor, effective July 1, 2026.
Originally from Klagenfurt, Austria, Wedenig completed his undergraduate law degree from the Johannes Kepler University in civil law jurisdiction. Upon receiving his law degree, Wedenig moved to Ottawa, where he worked with the Austrian Embassy from 2020-2021 before returning to academia.
In 2021, Wedenig began as a master’s student at McGill University, and later went on to pursue his PhD in 2022 with a specialization in air and space law. He was later appointed as Fellow of the Royal Aeronautical Society in 2025.
Since completing his PhD, Wedenig’s research continues to explore aerospace law with an expanded to focus on the role of artificial intelligence. He further conducts research in torts as well as public and private international law.
From aviation enthusiasm to aerospace law
Before pursuing a legal career, Wedenig seriously considered becoming a pilot. His interest in aerospace law stems from a lifelong fascination with aviation.
"I'm a huge aviation nerd," he said. "I've always been fascinated by airplanes."
That enthusiasm eventually led him toward studying the legal frameworks that govern aviation and space activities.
Today, his work explores how legal systems respond to rapidly evolving technologies such as artificial intelligence. His research examines the challenges these technologies create for both domestic and international legal frameworks, making his work increasingly relevant in a world shaped by technological innovation.
Wedenig is very excited about joining UCalgary Law and contributing to what he describes as a vibrant academic community.
“One thing that I realized is this family atmosphere and the collegiality of the faculty, which is something that I value very highly,” he added.
Looking ahead, Wedenig looks forward to bringing a unique perspective to UCalgary Law, hoping to bridge the gap between academia and real-world experience in aerospace law.
“I'm excited to bring aerospace law to Calgary, particularly because the Calgary curriculum is so practice oriented,” he said.