# Principal Investigator Projects

**Funder:** FWF
**Duration:** Up to 48 months
**Consortium:** No
**Frequency:** Continuous
**Eligible countries:** AT
**Official call:** https://www.fwf.ac.at/en/funding/portfolio/projects/principal-investigator-projects
**Last verified:** 19 July 2026

## Eligibility & scope

Thematically open basic research funding for principal investigators and their research groups at Austrian institutions, across all disciplines. Covers individual research questions over a defined project period of up to 48 months. No topic restrictions.

## Summary

FWF Principal Investigator Projects fund independent researchers and their teams to pursue thematically unrestricted basic research at Austrian institutions, with projects lasting up to four years. The call is open across all disciplines and welcomes novel research questions from established investigators. Rolling submission means researchers can apply whenever ready, without annual deadlines.

## Who should apply

- Established researchers (typically postdoctoral or senior) with an independent research vision
- Researchers based at accredited Austrian academic or research institutions
- Any discipline and research area; no thematic restrictions
- Teams pursuing well-defined research questions over a bounded project period

## Key dates

- Rolling submission; apply whenever ready, no annual deadline
- Continuous application window
- Up to 48-month project duration

## Tips for applicants

- Rolling deadlines mean no seasonal rush; use the flexibility to refine and resubmit if necessary.
- FWF values clarity on the defined research question and realistic scope within 48 months; overambition is penalised.
- Single-investigator or small-group projects are the norm here; clearly demarcate your team's role and outputs.

## Frequently asked questions

### What is the FWF Principal Investigator Projects call?

It is thematically open basic research funding for independent researchers at Austrian institutions, with rolling submission and up to 48 months per project.

### Do I need to apply by a specific deadline?

No; FWF Principal Investigator Projects operate on continuous rolling submission, so you can apply whenever your proposal is ready.

### Can I apply from outside Austria?

No; your host institution must be located in Austria.

### What research areas are eligible?

All disciplines and subjects are eligible; the call is thematically unrestricted.

### How long can my project last?

Up to 48 months per project.

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Source: [The Great Grantsby](https://grantsby.eu/grants/fwf-principal-investigator-projects-2026) — EU grant monitoring for academic researchers. Always verify details on the funder's website before applying.

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