Career at the University of Vienna

Doctoral Recruitment Call 2026 — Social Sciences, Humanities & Cultural Studies

Call for Applications: at least 40 Doctoral Positions in the Social Sciences, Humanities & Cultural Studies

The University of Vienna invites applications for at least 40 fully funded, 4-year doctoral positions in the social sciences, humanities and cultural studies.

We are actively seeking international talent committed to cutting-edge research who wish to join a doctoral programme at the University of Vienna. A broad pool of eligible supervisors across multiple SSH doctoral schools and faculties allows applicants to identify the best possible academic fit for their proposed project within one of Europe’s largest research environments.

The University of Vienna offers first-class supervision, vibrant research networks, and opportunities to network internationally, publish, and grow.

Are you interested in applying for a doctoral position within the SSH Call 2026 and have further questions?

Online Information Session

10 February 2026 / 13:00–14:00 (CET) / Online (MS Teams)

More information Join the session

  • What is it about

    Shortfacts
    Target group:

    Ambitious candidates with a strong academic track record and a compelling doctoral project idea who wish to pursue their doctorate within one of the participating doctoral schools at the University of Vienna (for a full list, see below)

    Positions:

    At least 40 fully funded Predoctoral positions (4 years, 30h/week, collective bargaining agreement: §48 VwGr. B1)

    Application period:

    7 January – 2 March 2026, 14:00 CET

    Start of employment:

    1 October 2026 (early start from July possible)

    Application language:

    All doctoral schools accept applications in English. Some doctoral schools additionally accept applications in German.
    Please refer to the doctoral school pages linked below for detailed information on the accepted application languages.

    Application mode:

    central online application (available with call opening)

    More Questions? See our FAQs

How to apply

Make sure to start the application process early!

  • Step 1: Before applying, please ensure that you will have completed a subject-related diploma or master's degree by 30 June 2026 and that you meet the doctoral admission requirements of the University of Vienna by the start of employment.
    You do not need a confirmation of supervision for applying to the SSH Call 2026. Please do not contact supervisors prior to your application in this regard. Matching and confirmation of supervision takes place exclusively during the selection process. If you are already enrolled in a doctoral programme at the University of Vienna, your admission must not have taken place before the winter semester 2025/2026. For a full list of eligibility requirements, please consult our FAQs.
     
  • Step 2: Search for the relevant Doctoral School below.
     
  • Step 3: Choose from the list of eligible supervisors, no prior contact needed.
    Make sure to list the correct faculty and supervisor in the application process!
     
  • Step 4: To apply, first set up a u:account and then continue with the “Apply” link below.
    Please refer to the User Guide for instructions on how to create and submit your application.

Apply now