ESPRIT (“Early Stage Programme: Research, Innovation and Training”) aims to foster the career development of researchers from all disciplines by carrying out an independent research project as principal investigator. The principal investigator will be supported in his/her skills and career development by a mentor. The FWF also places particular emphasis on the promotion of female researchers.
The objectives of ESPRIT are
- to promote excellent, innovative research,
- to retain, attract, and win back outstanding researchers and thus strengthen Austrian research institutes,
- to support outstanding women researchers,
- to promote career and skills development (develop/establish own research profile based on an independent research project),
- to enhance career prospects (boost competitiveness through publications, collaborations, and increased visibility).
Requirements
- Doctoral degree awarded no more than five years prior to the time of application
- International scientific/scholarly publications
- Mentor who will assist the principal investigator in his/her professional and personal career development
Duration
36 months (not extendable)
Amount of funding
- Principal investigator’s salary
- Project-specific costs of €15,000 per year (lump sum) or up to a maximum of €25,000 per year (application must include a justification for the higher amount of funding)
Applications
Online via the FWF’s electronic application portal (elane)
- Official application is submitted by the Austrian research institute (PROFI)
- No deadlines, on a rolling basis
- in English
Processing time
Estimated time of 4 months on average
