Postdoc scheme launched at IST Austria

The Institute of Science and Technology (IST) Austria is introducing the postdoctoral research fellowship scheme ‘ISTFELLOW’ to attract more outstanding postdoctoral researchers to IST Austria. The scheme is funded in part through the internationally competitive EU Framework Programme 7, in particular the Marie-Curie Actions – People/Co-funding of Regional National and International Programmes (COFUND). The EU contributes € 3.4 million to the total budget of € 8.5 million.

ISTFELLOW is open to qualified applicants from all over the world. Initially, the fellowship scheme is intended primarily for postdocs in research fields currently represented at IST Austria in addition to the so far existing postdoc positions. However, as the Institute branches out into other areas, so will ISTFELLOW. At all times, in keeping with the spirit of IST Austria, preference is given to scientists with a strong interest in multidisciplinary approaches. President Thomas Henzinger: “This scheme is a remarkable initiative by the European Union. Excellent science thrives on young generations of researchers developing and applying new approaches. This scheme enables them to work at those institutions that are open to these new ideas. We, at IST Austria, support this program with substantial resources.”

IST Austria seeks to attract highly qualified young scientists with an interest in pursuing interdisciplinary science. Therefore, the main selection criterion for ISTFELLOW is the scientific excellence and promise of the prospective fellows. This is assessed based on several indicators, including publication record and external reference letters. Due to IST Austria’s excellent, highly interdisciplinary level on the forefront of basic research, it is expected that candidates with a wide set of skills, experience and training in different areas will apply.