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The closing date for the 2026 Call for Proposals is October 15, 2026 (2 pm CEST)
The Institute of Science and Technology Austria (ISTA) has launched a new fellowship program for postdoctoral scientists working in the fields of astronomy, astrophysics and cosmology. The Sirius Fellowship in Astrophysics will provide postdocs with the independence and freedom to establish their own research program.
The Institute of Science and Technology Austria (ISTA) has launched a new fellowship program for postdoctoral scientists working in the fields of astronomy, astrophysics and cosmology. The Sirius Fellowship in Astrophysics will provide postdocs with the independence and freedom to establish their own research program. ISTA offers an enabling and collaborative environment in the outskirts of Vienna.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must have had their PhD awarded no more than 6 years before the commencement of the fellowship.
Researchers already employed at ISTA are not eligible for the fellowship.
Following the initial evaluation round, top-ranked candidates must be available for a remote interview between November 16-18, 2026.
Successful Fellows must begin their employment at ISTA on or around September 1, 2027.
Benefits of the Sirius Fellowship
Internationally competitive salary (min. 76,986 EUR gross per year)
Annual research and travel budget of 25,000 EUR
Cutting-edge and state-of-the-art resources: scientific service units
Open, collaborative, interdisciplinary research environment
Enabling framework in which to develop interdisciplinary skills
Teaching within ISTA encouraged (but not required), aiming to create the most conducive environment for the creation and transfer of knowledge
Access to optional Scientific Integrity and Leadership training, as well as career development support
Joining ISTA’s global networks of exceptional, pioneering researchers
All employees enjoy Austria’s social security benefits
Please see the Guide for Applicants before applying.