Sirius Fellowship in Astrophysics at ISTA
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 Nov 16-18, 2026.
- Successful Fellows must begin their employment at ISTA on or around 1 September 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.
The application portal will open in August 2026. The closing date for the 2026 Call for Proposals is October 15, 2026 (14:00 CEST)
Equity, Diversity & Inclusion (EDI)
At ISTA, equity, diversity and inclusion are core values that we see as essential for creating and disseminating new knowledge and for taking science into new directions. ISTA strives for a diverse community with an open, inclusive culture where scientists and staff of all backgrounds, regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, cultural background, religion, sexual orientation, and physical disabilities, can work and learn together.
