Are you an early-career humanities scholar with a research focus on Austria? The Republic of Austria is now accepting applications for the Richard Plaschka Fellowship 2026, a prestigious funding opportunity for PhD candidates, postdoctoral researchers, and early-stage academics. This fellowship provides fully supported research stays in Austria, offering a unique chance to engage deeply with the country’s rich archives, libraries, and academic networks.

Fellowship Benefits

The Richard Plaschka Fellowship offers a comprehensive support package designed for extended research:

• Generous Monthly Stipend: €2,500 per month for the duration of the fellowship.
• Flexible Research Duration: 4–12 months, with the possibility of extending up to 18 months after a positive evaluation.
• Logistical and Travel Assistance: Support with accommodation through OeAD housing, help with health insurance, and travel subsidies up to €1,200 for applicants from developing countries.

Note: The fellowship is a supplementary grant. Scholars should plan for some personal funds to cover additional living expenses, as accommodation assistance is not a full housing grant.

Who Should Apply?

Ideal candidates are scholars actively building an academic career focused on Austria. You qualify if you:

• Are a PhD candidate, recent PhD graduate, or postdoctoral researcher in History, Archaeology, or related Humanities disciplines.
• Conduct research directly related to Austria.
• Can demonstrate academic involvement through teaching, employment, or publications.
• Have not studied, lived, or researched in Austria in the six months prior to the fellowship start.
• Have obtained written consent from a qualified academic supervisor (habilitated) at an Austrian university, archive, or research institute.

How to Apply: The Two-Part Process

Step 1: Secure a Host Supervisor in Austria

Before applying, you must identify and obtain formal agreement from a supervisor at an Austrian university or research institution. This step is critical and should begin months before the deadline.

Step 2: Submit Your Online Application

With a host confirmed, prepare your application including:

• Detailed research proposal
• Academic certificates
• Recommendation letters
• Proof of PhD enrollment or employment

Submit your complete application via the official Austrian scholarship portal: www.scholarships.at.

Application Deadlines

The fellowship has two annual application windows, depending on your planned research start date:

• Primary Deadline: 1 March 2026
• Secondary Deadline: 15 September 2026

Incomplete applications or late submissions are not considered, and competition is highly selective.

Tips for a Successful Application

• Choose the right supervisor: Research Austrian departments and archives to find a host whose expertise closely aligns with your project.
• Craft a strong proposal: Demonstrate why your research requires direct access to Austrian archives, libraries, and academic resources.
• Show global impact: Explain how your project contributes to international scholarship and how the fellowship supports your long-term career goals.

The Richard Plaschka Fellowship is more than financial support—it is an opportunity to immerse yourself in Austria’s academic community and conduct in-depth, source-based research. By carefully selecting a host and presenting a compelling research plan, you can position yourself to benefit from this transformative fellowship.

Apply here: Richard Plaschka Fellowship Application Portal