An industry-related PhD is a project that deals with a scientific or technical research question. The project is carried out in cooperation between a company or a non-university research institution, a university and a doctoral candidate. The doctoral candidate is employed by a company or a non-university research institution, is integrated into the organisation and supported in the project. A clear benefit for the career development of the doctoral candidate is of high importance.
Programme Objectives
- structurally improve the availability of excellently trained research staff in natural sciences and technology for the Austrian industry
- facilitate the entry into research careers outside the science system and open up new career paths
- systematise and deepen existing cooperative relationships between science and the industry
- Improve career opportunities for women in science and technology
Currently open call:
Industrienahe Dissertationen 2026 (Industry-Related PhD Projects 2026)
The call supports application-oriented research projects carried out by PhD candidates employed at non-university research institutions or companies of any size with R&D activities, each with a branch in Austria. The project must demonstrate clear economic relevance.
Once the available budget has been fully or partially used up, the call may be closed before the official submission deadline. Part of the funding has already been allocated: companies may now only submit projects involving female PhD candidates. Non-university research institutions may continue to submit projects with PhD candidates of any gender.