The ISTA Postdoctoral Fellowships in Austria 2025-26 offer an exceptional opportunity for ambitious researchers in Natural Sciences, Mathematics, and Computer Sciences to immerse themselves in a globally recognized hub of scientific excellence. Hosted by the prestigious Institute of Science and Technology Austria (ISTA), this fully funded research program empowers postdoctoral scholars to break scientific boundaries through interdisciplinary exploration and innovation.

Designed for international scholars ready to expand their research capabilities in a collaborative and resource-rich environment, the ISTA Fellowship is more than just a job—it’s a transformational two-year experience for career advancement. Whether you aim to deepen your scientific inquiry, contribute to global innovation, or prepare for faculty-level roles, this postdoctoral program in Europe supports your mission with world-class mentorship, facilities, and institutional backing.

The fellowship welcomes scholars from diverse backgrounds and fosters a unique ecosystem where early-career researchers collaborate with renowned professors across cutting-edge disciplines. It is particularly attractive for researchers who value academic freedom, interdisciplinary dialogue, and societal impact. The fellowship offers full-time employment, financial security, and family-friendly support, making it ideal for scholars at a pivotal stage of professional growth.

Program Details

Host Country:
Austria

Program Location:
Klosterneuburg, Austria (close to Vienna)

Program Duration:
2 years

Program Themes or Focus Areas:
The ISTA Fellowship is open to a wide range of research areas, including but not limited to:

• Physics

• Mathematics

• Biology

• Computer Science

• Neuroscience

• Chemistry

• Data Science

Applicants should ensure their proposed research aligns with ISTA’s core disciplines. A full list of supported areas and faculty supervisors is available on the ISTA research page.

Benefits

The ISTA Postdoctoral Fellowships provide a comprehensive support package to ensure that researchers can fully focus on their scientific goals. Benefits include:

• Two-year full-time employment contract with a minimum annual salary of €72,100 (gross)

• Full social security coverage, including health, pension, and unemployment insurance

• Coverage of research-related costs, such as:

  • Travel expenses

  • Conference fees

  • Consumables and lab supplies

  • Membership fees

  • External services

  • Scientific Support Unit (SSU) expenses

• Access to state-of-the-art research infrastructure, including:

  • Cryo-electron microscopy

  • Optics and imaging labs

  • Pre-clinical studies equipment

  • NMR and nano-fabrication facilities

• Option for on-campus accommodation until long-term housing is secured

• On-site daycare facility for children of fellows

• Visa support through ISTA’s International Office

• Free German-language courses for integration and communication

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the ISTA Postdoctoral Fellowship, applicants must meet the following conditions:

• Must hold or be near completion of a PhD degree in a relevant field (PhD must be completed before the fellowship start date)

• The proposed research must align with ISTA’s supported disciplines

• Applicants cannot be employed by ISTA before September 1, 2025

• Fellowship contracts are only issued upon submission of PhD diploma or documentation confirming successful defense

• Must have an agreement with a faculty supervisor at ISTA prior to application

This opportunity is open to applicants of all nationalities. There is no age limit, and ISTA promotes diversity, inclusion, and equality in science.

How to Apply

Applications for the ISTA Postdoctoral Fellowship must be submitted through the online application portal. Follow these steps to ensure your application is complete:

1. Create an account via the ISTA online portal.

2. Verify your email to activate your registration.

3. Complete personal details including your contact and academic information.

4. Provide PhD program details, including institution, supervisor, and completion status.

5. List your current employment status and academic affiliation.

6. Confirm your ISTA host supervisor, ensuring that an agreement is made in advance.

7. Describe your proposed research project:

   • Title

   • Scientific abstract

   • Responses to specific research-related questions

8. Upload required documents, making sure they follow formatting guidelines.

9. Submit three letters of reference, to be uploaded directly by your referees.

10. Review your application for completeness and submit before the deadline.

Required Documents

Applicants must prepare the following materials for submission:

• Detailed CV

• Motivation statement

• Research proposal

• Academic summary

• Completed ethics self-assessment form

• Optional: PhD diploma or proof of PhD completion

• Additional supporting documents, if applicable

• Three references (referees must upload these directly)

All documents must be submitted in English. Missing or improperly formatted documents may result in disqualification.

Application Deadline

The deadline to apply for the ISTA Postdoctoral Fellowships 2025-26 is:

16 September 2025

Applicants are strongly encouraged to begin the process early to allow time for coordination with potential supervisors and referees.

Final Thoughts

The ISTA Postdoctoral Fellowships in Austria offer a powerful platform for highly qualified researchers to engage in innovative, cross-disciplinary science while enjoying the cultural richness and research excellence of Europe. With its generous funding, excellent facilities, and vibrant academic community, ISTA is the ideal setting to transition from postdoctoral research into a long-term academic or industry career.

This opportunity is ideal for those who are passionate about scientific discovery, value international collaboration, and aspire to work with world-class mentors in an intellectually stimulating environment.

For researchers from around the world, especially those from underrepresented regions, this fellowship is a stepping stone to contributing meaningfully to the global research ecosystem.