One of Austria’s most prestigious research funding programs, the FWF ASTRA Awards help postdoctoral researchers with remarkable talent launch their own academic careers. The program, which was started by the Austrian Science Fund (FWF), aims to keep outstanding international talent in Austria and enhance the nation’s standing as a center for top-notch scientific research.
The prizes enable awardees to pursue ambitious ideas and make important contributions to their professions by providing substantial cash for long-term, innovative research initiatives across all scientific disciplines. In addition to providing funding, the program has a strong emphasis on career development, assisting researchers in becoming independent investigators and advancing into leadership roles in Austria’s highly regarded universities and research centers.
The ASTRA Awards give recipients access to mentorship opportunities, large research networks, and the tools they need to run their own research teams. In addition to promoting cutting-edge research, the program seeks to develop the next generation of academic leaders by giving them the tools and recognition they need to be successful in the global arena.
For postdoctoral researchers hoping to develop their careers, increase the impact of their work, and build a lasting academic presence in Austria, this prize is very beneficial.
Host Country: Austria
University: Austrian Universities
Opportunity Type: Post Doctorate
Eligibility Country: International Students, Domestic Students
Financial Coverage: Fully Funded,
Eligibility Criteria:
- Candidates must have a doctorate that was granted no more than nine years before to September 30 of the submission year, but no less than two years.
- Exceptions are made for parental leave or other career interruptions.
- Those without a PhD who have two to nine years of internationally recognized research experience are eligible to apply for arts-based research positions.
- Candidates must exhibit their ability to conduct independent research, which may involve:
- Securing competitive third-party funding
- At least three months of consistent experience conducting research abroad
- publications finished without the dissertation supervisor’s assistance
- At the time of application, candidates cannot be tenured professors or in a comparable leadership role.
- Each candidate may only lead one ASTRA-approved project and may only apply a maximum of twice during their career.
- All applications must be sent through an Austrian research institution that qualifies.
Benefits:
- One of the most generous research scholarships in Europe is awarded to successful applicants; the financing ranges from €500,000 to €1,000,000 for a maximum of five years.
- Long-term, creative, and risky research projects are supported by the funding.
- The program places a strong emphasis on career development, assisting scholars in moving up the academic leadership ladder.
- With particular steps to support female researchers, half of the rewards are designated for women.
- Child allowances, networking opportunities, and career coaching are examples of support for women.
- Women who acquire a tenure-track or permanent job during the first three years are eligible for a tenure package worth €200,000.
- Recipients gain international visibility and integration into Austria’s research institutions and networks.
- Non-selected hearing candidates are eligible to receive Merit Awards, which give up to €450,000 in three-year PI projects.
Deadline: 15 September 2026
