The Institute of Science and Technology Austria (ISTA) announces the opening of applications for its 2026 PhD program, dedicated to academically outstanding students who wish to pursue advanced studies in scientific and research fields.
The application deadline isJanuary 8, 2026, at 3:00 PM CET, while recommendation letters must be submitted byJanuary 11, 2026, at 11:59 PM CET.
About the Program
The ISTA PhD program aims to train open-minded, interdisciplinary scientists capable of tackling research problems from various perspectives and collaborating across diverse scientific domains.
The program provides a shared academic experience combininginterdisciplinary core courses,advanced specialized courses, andhands-on trainingin small research groups under close supervision.
The program consists of two main phases:
Phase 1:Includes interdisciplinary coursework and practical training in three different research groups (lab rotations) before choosing the final group.
Phase 2:Focuses on preparing and defending the PhD proposal, followed by intensive scientific research under the supervision of an academic committee.
The typical duration of study ranges from4.5 to 6 years, depending on the research topic and the student’s prior qualification (Bachelor’s or Master’s).
Application and Selection Timeline
| Stage | Date |
| Application opens | Second half of October 2025 |
| Application deadline | January 8, 2026, 2:59 PM CET |
| Preliminary review | February 2026 |
| Interviews (mostly online) | Late February to mid-March |
| Final selection meetings | Mid to late March |
| Offer letters sent | After final meetings |
| Deadline to accept the offer | April 15 |
| Program start date | September 15 (non-negotiable) |
Study and Training Structure
Lab Rotations:
Students work in three different research groups, each lasting about two months, before selecting their final group. This allows them to explore new areas and broaden their scientific skills.
Courses:
The curriculum includes two main types of courses:
- Core interdisciplinary coursessuch as “Interdisciplinary Scientific Communication,” aimed at improving communication skills across fields.
- Advanced elective coursesproviding in-depth training in the chosen research area, with flexibility in course selection.
Essential Research Skills:
Students receive training in scientific writing, research integrity, data management, communication and presentation, and career planning.
Eligibility
The program welcomes students holding aBachelor’s or Master’s degreein one of the following or related fields:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Neuroscience
- Mathematics
- Computer Science
- Physics
- Data Science and Scientific Computing
- Astronomy
- Earth Sciences
Applicants from diverse academic backgrounds are encouraged to apply and contribute their experience and skills to ISTA’s research environment.
Funding and Financial Support
All ISTA PhD students receivefull fundingwithinternationally competitive salariesandcomprehensive social security coverage.
Additional funding is provided forconference participationandworkshops.
Students are offeredfive-year employment contracts, extendable by one additional year if needed. Funding continues until the final defense of the PhD thesis.
Program Duration
The study period typically lasts4.5 to 6 years, depending on the research project and prior academic background.
How to Apply
Applications to the ISTA PhD program are acceptedonce a year, opening in thesecond half of Octoberand closing onJanuary 8, 2026.
Applicants must:
- Create an online account through the official application portal using a valid email address for all communication.
- Complete the application form on a desktop browser (mobile devices and tablets are not recommended).
- Download and follow theapplication guidecarefully.
- Upload all required documents exclusively via the online portal (no external submissions accepted).
Required Documents
Applicants must prepare the following documents:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Statement of Purposeexplaining academic motivation, previous experience, technical skills, and reasons for choosing ISTA. The statement must include:
- Up to three suitable research groups at ISTA.
- Discussion of one ISTA faculty research paper (with DOI) and why it interests the applicant.
- Mention of another inspiring research institution outside ISTA and the reason for it.
- Up to three suitable research groups at ISTA.
- Academic transcripts and certificatesfor all previous degrees, both in English and the original language.
- Contact details of three academic refereescapable of assessing the applicant’s academic and research performance.
All documents must be inEnglish. If not issued in English, anofficial translationmust be attached.
Selection Criteria
The Admission Committee evaluates applications based on several criteria, including:
- Academic performance during undergraduate studies, with emphasis on relevant subjects.
- Recommendation letters from professors or researchers (academic references are prioritized).
- Quality and relevance of the Statement of Purpose and the applicant’s research interests.
- Technical skills and practical experience in research projects or scientific competitions.
- General competencies such as communication, teamwork, and leadership.
- Academic, geographical, and disciplinary diversity.