ISTA Postdoctoral Fellowship Program 2026 in Austria (Fully Funded)
Are you an aspiring postdoctoral researcher with a passion for cutting-edge science? The Institute of Science and Technology Austria (ISTA) has opened applications for its Postdoctoral Fellowship Program 2026, and the best part—it’s fully funded! This prestigious opportunity offers international early-career researchers a unique platform to advance their work in an interdisciplinary and world-class research environment.
🏛️ About ISTA
Located in Klosterneuburg, just outside Vienna, the Institute of Science and Technology Austria (ISTA) is a renowned interdisciplinary research institution. It is dedicated to basic research in fields like physics, biology, computer science, mathematics, neuroscience, and more. With a strong emphasis on curiosity-driven research, ISTA provides a vibrant, international atmosphere where scientists are encouraged to pursue bold, innovative ideas.
📌 Program Overview
The ISTA Postdoctoral Fellowship Program 2026—also known as the IST-BRIDGE Fellowship—is designed to support highly qualified postdocs through a two-year, fully funded fellowship. Fellows are free to choose their own research direction and collaborate with world-class faculty from across disciplines.
What’s Included:
✅ Full financial support – Competitive salary and generous research allowance
✅ Family and relocation support
✅ Flexible start dates in 2026
✅ Professional development opportunities including training, mentoring, and networking
✅ International research community with over 70 research groups
📚 Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the ISTA Postdoctoral Fellowship 2026, applicants must:
-
Hold (or expect to hold by the start date) a PhD in the natural or computer sciences, mathematics, or related fields
-
Have no more than 2 years of postdoctoral experience at the time of application
-
Propose an independent research project that aligns with the interests of at least one ISTA faculty member
-
Demonstrate strong academic excellence and potential for independent research
🌍 Who Can Apply?
The ISTA fellowship is open to applicants from all nationalities. ISTA is committed to diversity and strongly encourages women and individuals from underrepresented backgrounds in science to apply.
📅 Application Timeline
-
Call Opens: August 2025
-
Application Deadline: Expected in November 2025
-
Fellowship Start Date: Any time in 2026, based on mutual agreement
Make sure to check the official ISTA fellowship page for updated dates and guidelines.
✍️ How to Apply
Applicants need to submit:
-
A detailed research proposal
-
CV including a publication list
-
Motivation letter
-
Letters of reference
-
A letter of support from an ISTA faculty host
📌 Tip: Start contacting potential faculty hosts early! This is a key part of your application.
🎯 Why Apply?
This fellowship is more than just a research position—it’s a launchpad for an international research career. You’ll gain:
-
Autonomy in your research
-
Access to state-of-the-art facilities
-
A collaborative and supportive community
-
Exposure to top-tier science in Europe
Details About the ISTA Postdoctoral Fellowship Program 2026 in Austria
- Host Country: Austria
- Location: Klosterneuburg
- University Name: Institute of Science and Technology Austria
- Fellowship Duration: 2 Years
- Benefits: Fully Funded
- Deadline: 15th September 2025
🔗 Official Website
To learn more and apply, visit the official ISTA Postdoctoral Fellowship page.
🌟 Whether you’re finishing your PhD or looking to take the next step in your research career, the ISTA Postdoctoral Fellowship Program 2026 could be your gateway to excellence in science. Don’t miss this fully funded chance to work in one of Europe’s leading research institutions!