Fully Funded PhD Positions at ISTA – 2027

About the opportunity

The Institute of Science and Technology Austria (ISTA) is looking for highly qualified candidates with Bachelor’s or Master’s degrees to apply for its PhD program.

ISTA offers fully funded PhD positions in the following disciplines:

Astronomy, Biology, Computer Science, Chemistry & Materials, Data Science & Scientific Computing, Earth Science, Mathematics, Neuroscience, and Physics.

Located on the outskirts of Vienna, ISTA provides a world-class research environment. In 2019, ISTA was ranked #3 worldwide in the normalized Nature Index ranking. In 2018, it was also ranked among the top ten institutions in the Nature Index Rising Stars “Top 30 Academic Institutions Under 30” list.

All students are offered 5-year contracts, internationally competitive salaries, and full social security coverage.

Virtual Student Open Day – November 18, 2026

Join ISTA’s Virtual Student Open Day and explore its programs and campus virtually, wherever you are located.

The program includes live sessions with the Graduate School Office, academics, and students. Discover the PhD program, research experience, support services, campus facilities, and much more.

REGISTER FOR THE OPEN DAY →

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Why choose ISTA?

International and Diverse Scientific Community

ISTA scientists, from professors to postdocs and students, come from all corners of the world. Representing over 80 nationalities, they bring together research and degrees from leading global scientific institutes and universities.

English-Speaking Environment

English is the language of instruction and communication throughout the Institute.

Interdisciplinary Research

The Graduate Program offers modern, comprehensive training with a strong interdisciplinary focus.

Cutting-Edge Research Training

Students work closely with outstanding faculty in small research groups and benefit from first-rate facilities.

During the first year, students complete coursework and research rotations before affiliating with a research group. This exploration phase allows them to identify the research topic and group that best match their interests before beginning in-depth thesis research.

Entry with a Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree

Candidates holding a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in science are welcome to apply.

Funding and Financial Support

All PhD students receive 5-year contracts and are fully funded until their thesis defense, provided they make reasonable academic progress.

ISTA supports researchers through diverse funding sources. Students also receive financial assistance to attend scientific conferences and workshops.

Career Development

ISTA alumni pursue successful careers after completing their PhDs. Students benefit from mentorship and career development programs focused on transferable skills for academia and beyond.

Career Services provides advice and training throughout their studies. ISTA also offers xista, an in-house science venture supporting the commercial development and use of research results.

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Skills and Qualifications

ISTA welcomes students with different academic backgrounds who can contribute their skills and experience to its scientific community.

Candidates holding a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in the following fields are encouraged to apply:

• Astronomy
• Biology
• Computer Science
• Chemistry & Materials
• Data Science & Scientific Computing
• Earth Science
• Mathematics
• Neuroscience
• Physics

Equity, Diversity and Inclusion

ISTA values diversity in personalities, backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. Diversity creates a workplace where employees can gain new ideas and insights, taking science in exciting new directions.

ISTA is committed to equal opportunities and social equity, regardless of age, gender identity, ethnicity, race, social or cultural background, creed, religion, sexual orientation, or physical and cognitive abilities.

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Application Requirements

What are the selection criteria?

The selection committee evaluates applicants’ preparedness, motivation, and potential using a range of indicators.

Scientific Promise

• Undergraduate performance, with particular attention to relevant field-specific courses.
• Reference letters from professors and senior scientists. One letter from industry is acceptable, but academic references are preferred. Referees should address analytical capabilities, technical proficiency, ability to work independently, and motivation and commitment.
• Statement of purpose describing previous research experience and motivation for applying to the ISTA PhD program, including academic fit and future career plans.
• Additional relevant skills, demonstrated through internships, research projects, science Olympiads, programming languages, laboratory techniques, and other activities.

Background

• Quality of undergraduate education.
• Transferable skills, including communication, teamwork, international experience, mobility, and leadership in student organizations.
• Diversity of academic and personal backgrounds, including applicants who have switched fields and underrepresented profiles in scientific disciplines.

ISTA processes applications for its PhD program once a year. Applicants must create an online account to submit and track their applications through the various stages.

What application materials are required?

Applicants must upload the following documents to the application portal:

• CV
• Statement of Purpose: A maximum of 1–2 pages explaining research experience and motivation for applying. Applicants should identify up to three research groups of particular interest. Contacting potential supervisors is not required at this stage.
• University transcripts and diplomas: Covering all degree programs and academic years attended or currently in progress, in both English and the original language.
• Contact information for three referees.

All documents must be submitted in English. University transcripts must be provided in both English and their original language.

Contact Information

Contact person: Gabriela Caracaleanu
Email: phd.recruitment@ista.ac.at

More information and application:
https://phd.pages.ista.ac.at/phd-application-admission/

Detailed job advertisement:
Download the detailed PhD offer (PDF)