The Centre of Excellence (CoE) "Neuronal Circuits in Health and Disease" is offering 20 fully funded PhD fellowships in neuroscience as part of the Excellent Brains PhD Program in Austria. This initiative is supported by the Austrian Science Fund (FWF) and invites talented graduates from around the world to apply.
Key Details:
* Funding Type: Fully Funded
* Degree Level: PhD
* Field of Study: Neuroscience
* Eligible Nationalities: Open to all nationalities
* Application Deadline: July 10, 2025
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Fellowship Overview
Selected candidates will join leading neuroscience labs at five prestigious institutions:
* Medical University of Vienna (MUV)
* Medical University of Innsbruck (MUI)
* University of Vienna (UNIVIE)
* Institute of Science and Technology Austria (ISTA)
* Institute of Molecular Biotechnology (IMBA)
This doctoral training program offers a four-year fully funded PhD opportunity focusing on GABAergic cells, which are crucial in brain circuits related to conditions such as schizophrenia, autism, and epilepsy.
Program Features
* Engage in cutting-edge neuroscience research.
* Participate in interdisciplinary workshops.
* Receive training in soft skills and career development.
* Experience joint seminars, lab rotations, journal clubs, and tailored mentorship from internationally recognized scientists.
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Benefits
* Fully funded PhD fellowship for four years.
* Access to advanced research laboratories and facilities.
* Training in clinical and basic neurobiology, data science, and GABAergic cell mechanisms.
* Professional development support and relocation guidance.
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Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Excellent Brains PhD Fellowship, applicants must:
1. Hold a Master’s degree or equivalent in relevant fields (neuroscience, biology, genetics, etc.) by October 31, 2025.
2. Candidates with degrees in computer science, AI, physics, mathematics, or machine learning are also encouraged to apply if interested in neuroscience.
3. Have research experience in a related scientific field.
4. Provide two academic references, including one from their Master’s thesis supervisor.
5. Submit a completed application before the deadline of July 10, 2025.
6. Demonstrate a strong command of English (no certificate required).
7. Applicants with non-European degrees must submit GPA scores.
Special provisions are available for candidates holding a 4-year bachelor's degree (with First Class Honours and 240 ECTS) and significant research experience.
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Application Procedure
1. Review the available Key Researchers (KRs) and select up to three with whom you'd like to pursue your PhD.
2. Fill out the online application form.
3. Upload your CV, academic diploma(s), and transcripts as a single PDF.
4. If your documents are not in English, submit an official translation.
5. Ensure your referees submit their recommendations by the deadline.
For additional guidance, applicants may contact Dr. Katalin Szigeti at [margit.katalin.szigeti@univie.ac.at].
For more information and to apply, visit the Excellent Brains PhD Program page [https://coe.univie.ac.at/?page_id=55].