The ISTA Postdoctoral Fellowships Austria 2025 is a fully funded postdoc opportunity at the Institute of Science and Technology Austria (ISTA), offering international researchers a chance to conduct postdoctoral research in Austria within world-class facilities. It offers fully funded (two-year) postdoctoral fellowships for highly qualified candidates who have completed or will soon complete their PhD or equivalent in the natural or computer sciences, mathematics or any related discipline.
The ISTA Postdoctoral Fellowship is a prestigious research fellowship in Europe is perfect for scientists seeking international postdoctoral fellowships in natural sciences, mathematics, computer science, and related fields. Application Deadline is: September 16, 2025
University/Institution Details
- Host: Institute of Science and Technology Austria (ISTA)
- Location: Klosterneuburg, near Vienna, Austria
- Type: Interdisciplinary research institute with a global reputation for excellence in postdoctoral research Austria and science and technology postdoc Austria.
Study Areas (Available Programs)
- Biology
- Neuroscience
- Mathematics
- Data and Computer Science
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Earth Science & Astronomy
Applicants can propose their own research topics for postdoctoral fellowships in these or related fields, collaborating with top faculty for research opportunities in Austria.
ISTA Postdoctoral Fellowships Benefits
- Fully funded postdoctoral position with a 2-year contract
- Minimum annual salary: €72,100 gross (~$77,000 USD)
- Full social security coverage (health, accident, pension)
- Research budget for travel, conferences, and materials
- Research Environment: Access to advanced facilities in computing, microscopy, imaging, optics, nanofabrication, and more on a modern campus.
- Family Services: Onsite daycare available (subject to availability).
- Housing: Temporary on-campus housing offered to international fellows (subject to availability).
- Language: English is the official language; free German courses available.
Benefits Not Included
- Personal expenses outside research and living costs
- Travel for family members (unless specified)
- Permanent housing beyond initial support
- Tuition fees (not applicable for postdocs)
Eligibility Criteria for ISTA Postdoctoral Fellowships
- Must hold or expect to hold a PhD by June 15, 2026.
- Applicants already employed at ISTA before Sept 1, 2025, are not eligible
- Research proposal aligned with ISTA-supported fields and faculty expertise
- Not previously employed at ISTA before September 1, 2025
- Fellowship must commence between December 15, 2025, and June 15, 2026
- Agreement from a faculty supervisor required before applying
- Open to all research fields supported by ISTA.
- Must hold or expect to hold a PhD by June 15, 2026.
- Applicants already employed at ISTA before Sept 1, 2025, are not eligible.
Required Documents:
- Research proposal (max. 5 pages)
- Curriculum Vitae (max. 2 pages)
- Academic summary (up to 3 major achievements, 1 page)
- Motivation statement (1 page)
- Completed Ethics Self-Assessment Form
- PhD diploma/transcripts (optional)
- Other supporting documents
- Three references (at least two letters by the deadline)
ISTA Postdoctoral Fellowships Application Process (Step-by-Step Guide)
- Read the Guide for Applicants.
- Register at apply.ista.ac.at.
- Verify your account via email.
- Fill in all required info and upload documents.
- Submit your application.
- Results communicated within 4 months of the deadline.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Start early to allow time for contacting supervisors and preparing documents.
- Tailor your research proposal to ISTA’s research strengths and your chosen supervisor’s expertise.
- Ensure all documents meet formatting and length requirements.
- Highlight significant achievements in your academic summary.
- Clearly articulate your motivation and research impact.
- Follow up with referees to ensure timely submission of recommendation letters.
- Proofread your application for completeness and clarity.
- Explore Best Scholarships in Germany
Monthly Living Expenses for International Postdocs (USD)
| Expense Category | On-Campus (USD) | Off-Campus (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | $350–$450 | $500–$800 |
| Food & Groceries | $300–$400 | $300–$400 |
| Transportation | $50–$100 | $50–$100 |
| Health Insurance | Included | Included |
| Miscellaneous | $100–$200 | $100–$200 |
| Total Estimate | $800–$1,150 | $950–$1,500 |
ISTA’s fully funded postdoc salary Austria easily covers these living expenses for postdocs in Austria.
Why Choose the ISTA Postdoctoral Fellowship Austria?
- Fully funded postdoctoral position with a highly competitive salary and benefits
- World-class research facilities and interdisciplinary collaboration
- Supportive international environment with mentorship and career development
- Comprehensive social security and family-friendly services (childcare, housing, visa support)
- Live and work near Vienna, one of Europe’s most vibrant and livable cities
- No tuition fees and additional research funding for conferences and travel
- English as the working language, plus free German language courses for integration
Frequently Asked Questions: ISTA Postdoctoral Fellowship
Who can apply for the ISTA Postdoctoral Fellowship?
Researchers with a PhD (or soon to complete) in relevant scientific fields who have not been employed at ISTA before September 1, 2025.
What is the duration and salary of the fellowship?
The postdoctoral fellowship Austria lasts 2 years with a minimum annual gross salary of €72,100 (approx. $77,000 USD).
Are family and relocation benefits provided?
Yes, ISTA offers on-campus accommodation (subject to availability), visa support, and on-site daycare for international postdoctoral fellowships Austria.
What documents are required?
Research proposal, CV, academic summary, motivation statement, ethics form, PhD diploma/transcripts (optional), and three references.
Is knowledge of German required?
No, English is the working language. Free German courses are available for integration.
How many fellowships are awarded?
Up to 10 fully funded research fellowships in Europe are available for the 2025-26 cycle.
Can I choose my research topic?
Yes, applicants propose their own project in alignment with ISTA’s research fields and a faculty supervisor’s expertise for postdoctoral research fellowships in Europe.
