The ISTA-Fellow program at the Institute of Science and Technology Austria (ISTA) offers fully funded postdoctoral fellowships. This program is for highly qualified candidates who have recently completed or will soon complete their PhD in natural sciences, computer sciences, mathematics, or related fields. ISTA supports bold and innovative research in an international and interdisciplinary environment.
ISTA provides a unique campus with cutting-edge facilities like advanced imaging, electron microscopy, nanofabrication, and more. Fellows work closely with leading scientists in small research groups, receiving strong mentorship. The program encourages fellows to propose their own research projects within ISTA’s broad scientific fields.
The fellowship offers an internationally competitive salary, full social security, and project funding. ISTA also provides family services such as on-site daycare and support for housing. English is the official language, and German courses are offered to help fellows settle into Austria.
This opportunity is ideal for postdoctoral researchers eager to push scientific boundaries in a supportive, state-of-the-art setting.
Quick Overview of ISTA-Fellow Postdoctoral Program 2026
- Host Country: Austria
- Host Institution: Institute of Science and Technology Austria (ISTA)
- Deadline: September 16, 2025 (14:00 CEST)
- Duration: 2 years (full-time)
- Value: Competitive salary (min. €72,100 gross/year) + social security + project budget
- Age Limit: No specific age limit; PhD must be completed before fellowship start
- Eligibility: PhD holders or soon-to-be graduates in natural sciences, computer science, math, or related disciplines
Perks of the Institute of Science and Technology Austria Fellowships 2026
- Two-year full-time employment contract with excellent salary
- Full social security and benefits included
- Project budget for consumables, travel, conferences, and services
- Access to advanced research facilities and expert scientific services
- On-campus daycare and family support services
- Assistance with housing and visa procedures
- German language courses offered on-site
- Strong mentorship from world-class scientists
Benefits of Postdoctoral Fellowship Program 2026
- Opportunity to conduct innovative, independent research in a top-tier international environment
- Work alongside leading researchers in interdisciplinary teams
- Build a strong research portfolio supported by excellent infrastructure
- Gain experience that advances your scientific career globally
- Develop new skills in a collaborative and supportive setting
- Benefit from ISTA’s modern campus and cutting-edge technology
Moreover, this fellowship prepares you for a successful future in academia or research-based industry. In the long run, ISTA-Fellows are well-positioned to become scientific leaders and innovators.
Exclusions of the Research Fellowship in Austria 2026
- Researchers already employed at ISTA before September 1, 2025, are not eligible
- Housing on campus is limited and subject to availability
- German courses are optional and do not affect fellowship status
- Fellows must align research projects with the expertise of chosen host supervisors; unrelated projects may be rejected
- Reference letters and full application must be complete by the deadline; incomplete applications are rejected
Eligibility Criteria of ISTA-Fellow Postdoctoral Program 2026
- Hold a PhD (or equivalent) by the deadline or complete it before June 15, 2026
- Not employed at ISTA before September 1, 2025
- The research project must match the expertise of an ISTA faculty supervisor
- Applicants from all scientific fields at ISTA, including Biology, Neuroscience, Mathematics, Computer Science, Physics, Chemistry, Earth Science, and Astronomy
- Willingness to work full-time in Austria for two years
- Submit all required documents and three reference letters by the deadline
Important Dates of Fully Funded Research Program 2026
- Application Opens: Now
- Application Deadline: September 16, 2025 (14:00 CEST)
- Notification: Within 4 months after the deadline
- Fellowship Start: Between December 15, 2025, and June 15, 2026
How to Apply to the ISTA-Fellow Postdoctoral Program 2026
- Visit the official application site
- Create and verify your account via email
- Complete the application form, including personal data, education, and project information
- Upload all required documents: research proposal, CV, academic summary, motivation statement, ethics form, and references
- Submit your application before the deadline on September 16, 2025
Required Documents for Fellowships for international Students 2026
- Detailed Research Proposal (max. 5 pages) structured with project vision, methodology, impact, and scientific match
- Curriculum Vitae (max. 2 pages) including education, employment, awards, and publications
- One-page Academic Summary highlighting up to three major achievements
- Motivation Statement (max. 1 page) explaining research interests and career goals
- Completed Ethics Self-Assessment Form
- Three reference letters (at least two must be academic or senior scientific referees)
- PhD diploma or proof of defense (uploaded when available)