The FWF’s funding portfolio is aimed at highly qualified researchers from all disciplines who are carrying out projects in the field of basic research at Austrian research institutions. The regulations set out in the application guidelines for the individual programs generally apply to applications submitted from abroad.

Principal investigator(s) or consortium members (in collaborative programs) must contact the Austrian research institution where the project is to be carried out prior to submitting the application to clarify any requirements specific to the research institution.

Generally speaking: The principal investigator(s) or consortium members (in collaborative programs) must be employed at the Austrian research institution applying for funding (lead research institution) at the time the project is scheduled to begin. Their salary is paid either by the research institution or by the project as a grant-salaried researcher (if the funding program offers this option). Information on the extent of employment and other conditions can be found in the individual application guidelines. 

The following also applies to most programs: Principal investigators and consortium members (in collaborative programs) who are predominantly working abroad during the project may only act as principal investigators or consortium members if they are already employed at the Austrian research institution applying for funding at the time of application and for the entire duration of the project. The extent of employment at the Austrian research institution not funded by the FWF must be at least 25%. Coordinators (for cooperative programs) are usually subject to special requirements; please see the respective application guidelines. 

Special conditions apply to selected programs, where additional requirements must be met in order to apply. For further information, please see the respective application guidelines.

Appointments to an Austrian research institution

Researchers who already have a fixed appointment or employment commitment from an Austrian research institution can apply for all FWF programs before officially taking up their duties. The application should be timed to allow the project to begin with the official commencement of employment.

The FWF consulting team is also happy to answer any further questions by phone or email. Check the individual program information pages for contact details.

Scroll to the top