About the Fellowship
The IFK Research Fellowship offers early-career scholars a unique opportunity to pursue independent, interdisciplinary research at the prestigious International Research Center for Cultural Studies (IFK) in Vienna, Austria. This fully funded programme supports innovative research in the humanities and social sciences, encouraging collaboration between international fellows and Austrian academic communities. The fellowship strengthens Austria’s global academic profile and contributes to high-impact research that crosses disciplinary boundaries.
Fellowship / Details
- Position Title: IFK Research Fellowship
- Host Institution: International Research Center for Cultural Studies (IFK), University of Art and Design Linz
- Administering Body / Funding Agency: IFK – International Research Center for Cultural Studies
- Location: Vienna, Austria
- Research Field(s): Humanities, Social Sciences, Interdisciplinary Studies, Cultural Studies
- Fellowship Type: Postdoctoral Fellowship
- Level: Early-career
- Fellowship Duration: One academic semester (4 months)
- Expected Start Date: October 2026 or March 2027
- Working Hours: As per institutional norms
- Funding/Compensation: €2,387 per month (€77/day), plus workspace and travel/rent allowance (if relocating from outside Vienna)
- Required Degree/Diploma: Doctorate
Supported Research Fields / Areas
- Cultural Studies
- Interdisciplinary Humanities
- Social Sciences
- Global and Transcultural Studies
- European Studies
- Critical Theory
- Political and Historical Analysis
Eligibility & Qualifications
Minimum Requirements:
- PhD or equivalent awarded prior to start date
- Strong academic record in relevant disciplines
- Open to all nationalities and affiliations
- Austrian applicants receive preference if equally qualified
Preferred Qualifications:
- Peer-reviewed publications
- Experience in interdisciplinary research
- International academic exposure
Not Eligible:
- Applicants simultaneously applying for IFK Senior Fellowships
Fellowship/Job Benefits
- Monthly stipend: €2,387/month (€77/day)
- Workspace with iMac and internet
- Travel and rent allowance for those relocating to Vienna
- Research environment within a vibrant intellectual community
- Access to academic and cultural institutions in Vienna
- Participation in IFK events and scholarly exchange
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct independent research aligned with IFK’s interdisciplinary mission
- Engage with other IFK fellows and Austrian academic networks
- Participate in seminars, workshops, or lectures
- Prepare publications or project outcomes during the fellowship
Application Process
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted via the online application portal during the open call period. Documents must be uploaded as one merged PDF.
Apply here: https://www.ifk.ac.at/en/fellowships.html
Required Documents:
- Completed online application form
- Cover sheet with academic title, name, and institutional affiliation
- Short project abstract (max 1,000 characters incl. spaces)
- Full research proposal (max 1,200 words, excl. bibliography)
- Core bibliography (1 page)
- CV with list of publications (max 5 pages)
Important Dates
- Application Opens: 5 May 2025
- Deadline: 6 July 2025 (23:59 CEST)
- Interview Period: Not specified
- Final Results Notification: Late 2025
- Fellowship Start Date: October 2026 or March 2027
Where to Apply
- Institution Website: https://www.ifk.ac.at
- Official Fellowship Notification: Calls – ifk Research Fellowship – IFK (EN)
- Apply Online Here: ifk Research / Senior Fellowship Call for the academic year 2026/27 2026
