Austria WU Vienna ViCAS Fellowship 2026
The Austria WU Vienna ViCAS Fellowship 2026/27 is accepting applications. This highly competitive, fully funded fellowship at the Vienna University of Economics and Business (WU Vienna) provides early-career researchers and last-year PhD students an opportunity to further their academic careers in experimental economics.
About the ViCAS Fellowship
The ViCAS (Vienna Center for Experimental Economics Advanced Studies) Fellowship is a one-year in-residence research opportunity sponsored by the Institute for Markets and Strategy (IMS) at WU Vienna. The fellowship offers early-career researchers the tools, guidance, and support to carry out cutting-edge research in experimental economics.
Applicants should be:
- Final-year PhD students.
- Early-career researchers who graduated with a PhD in 2020 or later.
- The program emphasizes cooperation, creativity, and excellence in experimental and behavioral economics.
- Degree Level and Fields
This scholarship is offered at the Fellowship level at WU Vienna. The primary field of study is Economics, with a focus on experimental and related fields.
Fellowship Awards
The Austria WU Vienna ViCAS Fellowship 2026 provides one of the best scholarships support packages in Europe:
- Monthly stipend to cover living costs in Vienna.
- Travel allowance for relocation expenses.
- Completely furnished office on WU Vienna’s campus.
- Use of state-of-the-art research laboratories and scholarly seminars.
- Mentorship from senior faculty staff.
- Chances to present research at global conferences and workshops.
Eligibility Criteria
The applicants should meet the following criteria:
- Be a last-year PhD student or have a PhD finished on or after 2020.
- Be specializing in experimental economics or related fields like behavioral economics.
- Agree to live in Vienna for 12 months.
- Demonstrate high motivation to work in collaborative and innovative research.
Application Timeline
- Deadline: 15 November 2025
- Start Date: September 2026
- Duration: 12 months
- Results Announcement: Early 2026
Applications should contain a CV, research proposal, PhD certificate (or expected completion confirmation), two reference letters, and a motivation letter.
Why WU Vienna for the ViCAS Fellowship?
WU Vienna is one of Europe’s top institutions in economics and business studies. Fellows enjoy:
- A diverse international community of researchers.
- Strong emphasis on experimental and behavioral economics.
- Good infrastructure facilities, including modern labs.
- Opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration.
- Living in Vienna, which is one of the best cities in the world in terms of quality of life.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is the ViCAS Fellowship 2026 fully funded?
Yes, it includes a stipend, relocation assistance, workspace, and complete access to academic facilities.
2. Can international students apply?
Yes, the fellowship is for candidates from all nations.
3. What is the central research theme?
The fellowship is in experimental economics but open to related research in decision sciences and behavioral economics.
4. Do I need to be a PhD holder to apply?
You are eligible to apply if you are in your last year of PhD studies or graduated with a PhD in 2020 or later.
5. Is interdisciplinary research encouraged?
Yes, projects that combine experimental economics with related areas are eligible.
6. Is there an age limit for applicants?
No, but the eligibility demands a PhD obtained after 2020.
7. May fellows invite their family members to Vienna?
The fellowship only pays for the fellow, but Vienna is very family-friendly.
8. What documents must be submitted with an application?
A CV, research proposal, PhD certificate or letter stating expected completion, two references, and a motivation letter.
9. May postdoctoral researchers apply?
Yes, if qualified and willing to stay full-time in Vienna.
10. How competitive is the fellowship?
It is extremely competitive. Excellent research proposals, academic performance, and pertinent experience boost your chances of success.
Conclusion
The Austria WU Vienna ViCAS Fellowship 2026 is a golden chance for upcoming economists to learn from experienced mentors, be granted access to sophisticated research infrastructure, and work with international experts. If you are prepared to build a career in experimental economics, this fellowship provides you with everything you need.
