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FWF | ESPRIT

Submissions accepted continuously

The ESPRIT Programme (Early Stage Programme: Research, Innovation and Training) is addressed to highly qualified postdocs from all disciplines at the beginning of their academic career who wish to carry out an independent research project at an Austrian research institute.

Objectives

ESPRIT aims to foster the career development of researchers from all disciplines by carrying out an independent research project as principal investigator. The principal investigator will be supported in his/her skills and career development by a mentor.

The objectives of ESPRIT are

  • to promote excellent, innovative research,
  • to retain, attract, and win back outstanding researchers and thus strengthen Austrian research institutes,
  • to support outstanding women researchers,
  • to promote career and skills development (develop/establish own research profile based on an independent research project),
  • to enhance career prospects (boost competitiveness through publications, collaborations, and increased visibility).

The FWF also places particular emphasis on the promotion of women.

Requirements

  • The applicant must have the academic qualifications needed to lead the proposed research project.
  • Completed doctoral degree awarded no more than 5 years prior to the time of application
  • A mentor to support the principal investigator’s scientific and professional development
  • Project to be carried out at an Austrian research institution with the necessary infrastructure
  • For further details, please see the application guidelines.

Duration

36 months (cannot be extended)

Amount of funding

  • Principal investigator’s salary (current senior postdoc rate)
  • Project-specific costs from 45,000 Euro (flat rate) to 75,000 Euro (upon request, if justifiable)

Applications

online via the FWF’s electronic application portal (elane)

  • No deadlines, on a rolling basis
  • in English

Webinar 

On 14 November 2025, 9:30–11:30h, there is a en ESPRIT Webinar. 
Registration is possible until 12 November via this registration link

Further information on ESPRIT is available on the website of the FWF.