FWF
ESPRIT Program
Rolling submissions
Last verified:
The FWF ESPRIT Program funds postdoctoral researchers with a doctoral degree awarded within five years to develop independent research projects in Austria, with up to €75,000 in project costs plus PI salary support. The call targets early-career researchers establishing themselves at Austrian institutions and operates on a rolling deadline, allowing applications year-round. FWF allocates half of awarded grants to women, and women employed full-time receive an additional child allowance.
Details
| Funder | FWF |
| Budget | €45,000 lump sum (up to €75,000 with justification) |
| Consortium | No |
| Application | Single stage; five approval meetings per year |
| Frequency | Continuous |
| Career stage | Early-career opportunity |
| Eligible countries | AT |
Eligibility & scope
For early-career researchers (doctorate awarded no more than 5 years prior to application). Applications must be submitted via an Austrian research institution (PROFI mode on elane) with a mandatory Austrian-based mentor and a professional development/mentoring plan. Applicants may apply from abroad. Half of funds awarded to women; women employed full-time receive a child allowance up to the child's third birthday.
Who Should Apply
- •Postdoctoral researchers with a doctoral degree awarded within the past 5 years
- •Applicants planning research at an Austrian academic or research institution
- •Researchers from any nationality willing to relocate to Austria or already based there
- •Early-career scientists establishing their first independent project
Key Dates
- •Rolling deadline, applications accepted year-round
- •Single-stage review process
- •Project duration not specified in call details
Tips for Applicants
- ✓A strong mentor letter from your Austrian host institution is mandatory under the PROFI mode, ensure early contact and explicit commitment.
- ✓Women applicants should flag eligibility for child allowance in the budget justification if applicable; FWF reserves 50% of awards for women.
- ✓The rolling deadline means no single crunch point, but review times vary, contact FWF early if you need a decision by a specific date.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much funding does the FWF ESPRIT Program provide?
Up to €75,000 in project costs plus a PI salary, with half of awarded grants designated for women researchers.
Who is eligible for the FWF ESPRIT Program?
Postdoctoral researchers with a doctoral degree awarded within five years prior to application, conducting research at an Austrian institution with a named mentor.
What is the deadline for the FWF ESPRIT Program?
The programme operates on a rolling deadline, so applications are accepted year-round.
Do I need to be based in Austria to apply for ESPRIT?
No, the territoriality principle does not apply; you can apply from abroad, but your research must be carried out at an Austrian institution.
Summary generated by AI based on published grant information. Always verify details on the funder's website.
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