About the Program
The University of Vienna invites applications for at least 40 fully funded, 4-year doctoral positions in the social sciences, humanities and cultural studies under the “SSH Doctoral Call 2026” at the relevant faculties and postgraduate schools in the humanities. This doctoral opportunity supports original research in historical studies, cultural analysis, literary scholarship, and philological research, contributing to major questions about societies, texts, and cultural transformations across regions and time periods. Candidates will work within a structured doctoral training environment that promotes interdisciplinary humanities research, international collaboration, and methodological innovation. The position runs for up to four years and is based in Vienna, Austria, with an expected start between July and October 2026. Doctoral researchers benefit from expert supervision, integration into vibrant research networks, and strong professional development support within one of Europe’s leading research universities.
Program Details
- Position: Fully Funded PhD Position / Doctoral Researcher
- Institution: University of Vienna
- Department/Faculty: History, Cultural Studies & Philology / SSH Doctoral Schools
- Supervisor: Assigned based on the selected doctoral school and research proposal
- Location: Vienna, Austria
- Number of positions: 40
- Start Date (Anticipated): July–October 2026
- Duration: Up to 4 years
- Funding: Fully funded employment contract with salary according to Austrian regulations
- Working Hours: 30 hours per week
- Required Degree/Diploma: Master’s degree (or equivalent) in a relevant humanities discipline before employment begins
Research Focus/Area
- History and Historical Research
- Cultural Studies and Cultural Analysis
- Philology and Literary Studies
- Language Sciences and Linguistics
- Interdisciplinary Humanities Research
Eligibility & Qualifications
Minimum Requirements:
- Master’s degree (or equivalent) in a relevant discipline
- Strong interest in doctoral research within the humanities
- Eligibility for doctoral admission at the University of Vienna
Preferred Qualifications:
- Research experience in history, cultural studies, literature, or philology
- Strong academic record
- Ability to develop an original and internationally competitive PhD project
Key Features of the Program
- Structured doctoral training and supervision
- International research environment in Austria
- Opportunities to publish and present at international conferences
- Access to extensive libraries, archives, and research centres
- Professional development and transferable skills training
Application Process
How to Apply:
Applications must be submitted through the University of Vienna’s official recruitment system under the SSH Doctoral Call 2026
Required Documents:
- Research proposal
- Academic CV
- Degree certificates and transcripts
- Motivation letter
- Contact details for academic referees
Important Dates
- Applications Open: January 2026
- Deadline: 2 March 2026
- Interviews (if applicable): To be announced by the university
Where to Apply
- University Website: University of Vienna, Austria
- Official Notification: Click here
- Application Portal: Click here
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