The ISTA-Fellow program at the Institute of Science and Technology Austria (ISTA) provides fully funded postdoctoral fellowships. This program supports innovative basic research in an international environment, encouraging fellows to push scientific boundaries with top-tier supervisors and colleagues.

Fellowship Overview

The ISTA-Fellow program offers two-year, fully funded postdoctoral positions. It is designed for highly qualified candidates with a PhD or equivalent in natural or computer sciences, mathematics, or related disciplines. The program emphasizes an international, interdisciplinary, and intersectoral approach to research.

Fellows will have the opportunity to conduct research in all fields supported at ISTA. This includes a wide range of scientific disciplines, fostering collaboration and innovation. The program aims to attract researchers who are eager to contribute to cutting-edge research and advance their careers in a stimulating environment.

Successful applicants will join a vibrant community of scientists at ISTA. They will benefit from state-of-the-art facilities and resources, supporting their research endeavors and professional development.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must hold a PhD (or equivalent) or expect to complete their PhD before the fellowship start date. The PhD completion deadline is no later than 15/06/2026. A fellowship contract will only be issued upon providing proof of successful defense.

Researchers already employed at ISTA before September 1, 2025, are not eligible to apply. The program is intended for external candidates seeking to join ISTA's research community. This ensures a diverse and dynamic research environment.

• Applicants should demonstrate a strong research background and potential for independent research.
• They should also have excellent communication and collaboration skills.

Key Benefits

The ISTA-Fellow program provides full funding for two years, covering salary and research expenses. Fellows will have access to ISTA's world-class research infrastructure and support services. This allows them to focus on their research without financial constraints.

Fellows will work alongside leading researchers in their respective fields. They will also have opportunities to participate in conferences, workshops, and other professional development activities. This enhances their skills and expands their professional network.

The program fosters a collaborative and interdisciplinary research environment. This encourages fellows to engage with researchers from different backgrounds and perspectives, promoting innovation and creativity.

Application Process

The application deadline is September 16, 2025. Applicants should refer to the Guide for Applicants for detailed instructions and application links. It is crucial to prepare all required documents carefully and submit them before the deadline.

The application typically includes a research proposal, CV, and letters of recommendation. Applicants should clearly articulate their research interests and how they align with ISTA's research priorities. A well-crafted application is essential for a successful outcome.

For any questions regarding the application process, applicants can contact ista-fellow@ista.ac.at. The ISTA-Fellow team is available to provide assistance and clarification.

Potential Research Topics

ISTA supports a wide range of research areas, providing opportunities for fellows with diverse backgrounds. The institute encourages interdisciplinary research and collaboration across different fields. This fosters innovation and allows fellows to explore new research directions.

Fellows can propose research projects in various areas, aligning with ISTA's research priorities. The program encourages innovative and impactful research that contributes to the advancement of knowledge. This makes it a great opportunity for researchers looking to make a difference.

The research topics include but are not limited to:

• Theoretical Physics
• Neuroscience
• Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence
• Mathematics
• Chemistry and Materials Science
• Life Sciences and Microbiology