ESPRIT (Early-Stage Program: Research – Innovation – Training)
ESPRIT supports early-career researchers across all disciplines with independent basic research, mentoring, and professional development to build research profiles and advance their careers in Austria.
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Funder: Austrian Science Fund (FWF)
Due Dates: Rolling (Applications)
Funding Amounts: Senior postdoc salary plus €45,000–€75,000 in project-specific costs over 36 months
Summary: ESPRIT supports early-career researchers across all disciplines to lead independent research projects and develop their careers in Austria.
Key Information: Applications require an Austrian host research institution and a mentor employed at an Austrian research institution.
Description
ESPRIT (Early-Stage Program: Research – Innovation – Training) is an Austrian Science Fund program for highly qualified researchers at the beginning of their academic careers. It funds independent, innovative basic research across all disciplines, combining scientific work with mentoring and professional development. Clearly defined clinical research projects are also eligible when their results have no direct commercial interests.
The program helps researchers establish an independent research profile and improve their career prospects through publications, collaborations, skills development, and increased visibility. It also aims to recruit, retain, and bring back outstanding researchers to strengthen Austrian research institutions. Supporting outstanding women researchers is a central priority, with additional networking and visibility opportunities available to women involved in ESPRIT projects.
