Applications are open for the AITHYRA International PhD Programme 2027 in Austria, offering fully funded doctoral research positions in artificial intelligence, machine learning, computational sciences and biomedical research. Successful candidates will join AITHYRA, the Research Institute for Biomedical Artificial Intelligence of the Austrian Academy of Sciences, in Vienna.
The programme provides four years of funded doctoral employment, with an advertised annual gross salary of approximately €40,000. Doctoral researchers also receive employment-related insurance, research funding, access to advanced laboratory technologies and opportunities for interdisciplinary training.
What makes this opportunity particularly interesting is its approach to academic backgrounds. Applicants do not necessarily need previous training in both artificial intelligence and biology. Computer scientists, statisticians, engineers and mathematicians can apply without a biological background, while graduates in medicine, biology and chemistry are also welcome without extensive computational experience.
The institute wants researchers who are prepared to learn across disciplines and investigate how artificial intelligence can improve our understanding of diseases and contribute to the development of new treatments.
The application deadline is 1 November 2026, and the programme begins on 1 September 2027.
This guide examines the AITHYRA PhD Programme 2027, including its funding, admission requirements, research areas, degree-awarding universities, application procedure and practical advice for preparing a competitive application.
AITHYRA International PhD Programme 2027: Overview
| Programme information | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme name | AITHYRA International PhD Programme in AI for Biomedicine |
| Host research institute. | AITHYRA, Austrian Academy of Sciences |
| Country | Austria |
| Location | Vienna |
| Study level | Doctoral / PhD |
| Funding type | Fully funded doctoral employment |
| Employment duration | Four years |
| Admitted annual gross salary | Approximately €40,000 |
| Minimum monthly gross salary | €2,832.10, paid 14 times annually |
| Research areas | Artificial intelligence, machine learning, life sciences and biomedicine |
| Degree-awarding universities | University of Vienna, TU Wien or Medical University of Vienna |
| Eligible nationalities | International applicants from all countries |
| Working language | English |
| Application period | 1 September–1 November 2026 |
| Application deadline | 1 November 2026 |
| Selection hearings | 27–29 January 2027 |
| Programme commencement | 1 September 2027 |
| Application method | Official institutional recruitment process |
Applicants should note that this is a salaried doctoral position rather than a conventional scholarship that provides only a living stipend.
About AITHYRA and the Austrian Academy of Sciences
AITHYRA is the Research Institute for Biomedical Artificial Intelligence, hosted by the Austrian Academy of Sciences in Vienna.
Established in 2024, the institute brings together expertise in artificial intelligence, machine learning, biology, chemistry and medicine to develop new approaches to biomedical research.
Its central research objective is to integrate computational intelligence throughout the scientific process, from generating research hypotheses and designing experiments to interpreting biological data and investigating possible therapeutic interventions.
This approach reflects an important development in modern biomedical science.
Biological experiments can generate enormous quantities of data, including information about genes, proteins, cellular processes and molecular interactions. Researchers increasingly need sophisticated computational methods to analyse these datasets and identify relationships that conventional approaches might overlook.
At the same time, machine learning models need reliable experimental evidence to test their predictions.
AITHYRA seeks to connect these activities through a research environment where computational scientists and experimental researchers work closely together.
The institute is located at the Vienna BioCenter campus, an important centre for life science research in Austria.
What Makes AITHYRA Different?
One of AITHYRA’s defining ambitions is to create an AI-driven research environment that connects computation, laboratory automation and experimental science.
Rather than treating artificial intelligence as a separate tool used only after experiments have been completed, researchers investigate how AI can contribute throughout the research cycle.
For example, a machine learning system might help identify molecular patterns associated with a disease. Researchers could then design laboratory experiments to investigate those patterns, generate new data and use the results to improve subsequent computational models.
This interaction between prediction and experimentation is central to the institute’s scientific direction.
For doctoral candidates, the environment offers an opportunity to develop expertise that extends beyond a single traditional discipline.
Research Areas Available Under the AITHYRA PhD Programme 2027
The programme focuses on artificial intelligence for biomedicine, bringing together computational and experimental approaches to investigate biological systems.
Applicants may have experience in one of these areas or demonstrate the potential to develop expertise across several of them.
1. Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
AI and machine learning are central to AITHYRA’s research programme.
Relevant methods include geometric deep learning, generative models and representation learning.
These techniques can be used to investigate biological structures, analyse molecular information and develop models of complex biological processes.
Applicants with backgrounds in computer science, artificial intelligence, statistics, mathematics or related disciplines may find this research direction particularly relevant.
However, the institute does not require computational applicants to have previously studied biology.
A strong foundation in computational methods, combined with a credible interest in biomedical applications, may provide an appropriate starting point.
2. Computational Biology and Bioinformatics
Computational biology connects mathematical and computational techniques with biological questions.
Researchers may analyse genetic information, protein interactions, molecular structures or large experimental datasets.
Bioinformatics specialists can contribute expertise in data processing, biological databases, statistical analysis and computational modelling.
For applicants with experience in programming, scientific computing or quantitative data analysis, this area may offer an opportunity to apply those skills to biomedical research.
3. Molecular and Cell Biology
AITHYRA also welcomes applicants with experimental backgrounds.
Molecular and cell biology research investigates how biological systems function at the cellular and molecular levels.
These investigations may involve biological pathways, cellular responses, molecular regulation and disease-related processes.
Applicants with strong laboratory experience may contribute experimental expertise while developing additional computational skills during their doctoral training.
4. Chemical Biology and Organic Chemistry
Chemistry plays an important role in understanding biological processes and developing therapeutic approaches.
AITHYRA’s research includes chemical biology and organic chemical synthesis, alongside computational methods that can help investigate molecular interactions.
Graduates in chemistry, medicinal chemistry and related disciplines may therefore find relevant research opportunities.
5. High-Throughput Genetics and Proteomics
High-throughput experimental methods allow researchers to investigate large numbers of biological variables.
Genetics research can examine relationships involving genes and biological functions, while proteomics investigates proteins and their behaviour within biological systems.
These techniques generate datasets that can benefit from statistical modelling, machine learning and advanced computational analysis.
6. Laboratory Automation and Robotics
The institute is developing laboratory infrastructure that integrates robotics and experimental automation.
Automated systems can support repeated experiments, systematic data collection and more efficient laboratory workflows.
Researchers with engineering, robotics, automation or computational backgrounds may find this aspect of the programme especially interesting.
Research Areas at a Glance
| Research area | Relevant academic backgrounds |
|---|---|
| Artificial intelligence and machine learning | Computer science, AI, mathematics, statistics |
| Computational biology | Bioinformatics, computational biology, scientific computing |
| Molecular and cell biology | Biology, molecular biosciences, biochemistry |
| Chemical biology | Chemistry, medicinal chemistry, related sciences |
| Genetics and proteomics | Genetics, biotechnology, molecular biology |
| Biomedical applications | Medicine, biomedical sciences, bioengineering |
| Laboratory automation | Engineering, robotics, computer science |
These are broad areas within AITHYRA’s research environment, not a guarantee that every topic has a separately advertised doctoral position.
Applicants should review the current participating research groups and official application instructions before choosing their research interests.
Biomedical Challenges Addressed by AITHYRA
The institute’s research is directed toward important challenges in human health.
Its stated areas of interest include cancer, immunological disorders, infectious diseases and neurodegenerative conditions.
Cancer Research
Cancer involves complex changes in cellular behaviour and molecular regulation.
AI methods may help researchers analyse molecular datasets, investigate disease mechanisms and explore potential therapeutic strategies.
Immunology
The immune system involves interactions between different cell types, signalling pathways and molecular processes.
Computational modelling and experimental research can contribute to understanding how these systems respond to disease and treatment.
Infectious Diseases
Research on infectious diseases may involve investigating interactions between pathogens, host cells and immune responses.
Advanced computational approaches can help researchers analyse biological information and develop new scientific hypotheses.
Neurodegenerative Diseases
Neurodegenerative conditions involve complex biological changes that can be difficult to investigate through a single experimental approach.
Interdisciplinary research may contribute to understanding disease mechanisms and identifying directions for further investigation.
Applicants should understand that the programme is primarily concerned with fundamental and translational biomedical research. It is not a clinical medical training programme.
AITHYRA International PhD Programme 2027 Funding and Salary
One of the strongest features of the programme is its four-year employment-based funding arrangement.
Successful candidates receive a doctoral employment contract, allowing them to undertake their research while earning a salary.
Annual and Monthly Salary
The official vacancy advertises a gross annual salary of approximately €40,000.
It also specifies a minimum gross monthly salary of €2,832.10, paid 14 times annually.
| Salary component | Amount |
|---|---|
| Minimum gross salary per payment | €2,832.10 |
| Number of annual payments | 14 |
| Calculated annual gross salary | €39,649.40 |
| Advertised annual salary | Approximately €40,000 |
| Employment duration | Four years |
The calculated annual amount is consistent with the advertised rounded figure.
However, gross salary is not the same as take-home salary.
Employment-related deductions, including applicable taxes and social insurance contributions, affect the amount received after deductions.
Applicants should therefore avoid interpreting €40,000 as annual disposable income.
The final employment contract will determine the applicable salary arrangements.
Four Years of Doctoral Funding
The funding arrangement covers the four-year doctoral employment period.
This provides researchers with financial support while undertaking their projects, subject to the terms of their contracts and programme requirements.
Insurance and Employee Benefits
The programme includes employment-related insurance covering health, accidents and retirement.
Additional benefits include access to health-care services and subsidised meals.
These arrangements are particularly relevant to international researchers who may be unfamiliar with Austria’s employment and social insurance systems.
Research and Travel Support
AITHYRA states that its funding covers research costs and work-related travel expenses.
This can support research activities, collaboration and participation in appropriate scientific events.
However, applicants should distinguish work-related travel funding from personal relocation costs.
The official announcement does not establish a universal entitlement to reimbursement for every international flight, visa expense or initial accommodation deposit.
Research Infrastructure
Successful candidates gain access to advanced research technologies and the institute’s interdisciplinary scientific environment.
These facilities are an important component of the programme because experimental and computational biomedical research may require specialised infrastructure.
Other Benefits
The institute also offers access to scientific activities, professional development and social, cultural and sports opportunities organised within its research community.
Is the AITHYRA PhD Programme 2027 Fully Funded?
Yes. The institute explicitly describes the advertised positions as fully funded.
However, the funding structure is different from that of a conventional university scholarship.
AITHYRA offers salaried employment, insurance and support for research-related expenses.
This means successful applicants are doctoral researchers working under an employment arrangement while pursuing their PhD qualifications.
It does not mean that every personal expense, such as rent, groceries, visa costs or relocation expenses, is separately paid by the institute.
Candidates should prepare a realistic personal budget using their expected net salary and living expenses in Vienna.
Which Universities Award the PhD Degree?
AITHYRA is a research institute, but the doctoral degree is awarded through an academic university partner.
The programme identifies three degree-awarding institutions.
| University | Role |
|---|---|
| University of Vienna | Potential doctoral degree-awarding university |
| Vienna University of Technology (TU Wien) | Potential doctoral degree-awarding university |
| Medical University of Vienna | Potential doctoral degree-awarding university |
The appropriate university depends on the research project, supervisory arrangement and applicant’s academic background.
Doctoral candidates undertake their research within AITHYRA’s scientific environment while completing the academic requirements of the relevant partner university.
These requirements may include doctoral registration, research milestones, coursework, thesis submission and a final defence.
Applicants should not assume that they can independently choose any of the three universities without considering their research and supervisory arrangements.
AITHYRA PhD Programme 2027 Eligibility Requirements
The programme welcomes international applicants with strong academic foundations in computational sciences, life sciences or related technical disciplines.
1. Academic Qualification
Applicants should hold, or expect to complete by September 2027, a relevant Master’s degree.
Accepted academic backgrounds include computer science, computational biology, bioengineering, engineering, physics, statistics, mathematics, medicine, biology, chemistry and related scientific or technical disciplines.
2. Exceptional Bachelor’s Degree Applicants
AITHYRA’s official programme information states that candidates with a four-year bachelor’s degree and first-class honours may be considered in exceptional cases.
This is not a general waiver of the Master’s requirement for all bachelor’s degree holders.
Candidates seeking consideration under this exception should carefully assess their academic achievements, research preparation and eligibility for doctoral admission at the relevant partner university.
The university’s formal admission requirements still apply.
3. Computational Applicants Do Not Need Biology Experience
The programme explicitly welcomes AI and machine learning specialists who have not previously studied biology.
This is important for graduates whose expertise lies in algorithms, mathematical modelling, software development or quantitative analysis.
Such applicants should demonstrate both technical competence and genuine motivation to apply their skills to biomedical questions.
4. Life Science Applicants Do Not Need Advanced Programming Experience
Likewise, applicants from biology, medicine or chemistry are not required to arrive with extensive computational expertise.
The programme values candidates who bring strong experimental or scientific knowledge and are willing to develop new quantitative skills.
5. Interdisciplinary Academic Backgrounds
Applicants with less conventional academic pathways may also be considered where their qualifications and research interests are relevant.
For example, an engineer with experience in robotics, a physicist working with computational models or a statistician interested in biological data may have a relevant foundation.
Eligibility is ultimately determined through the institution’s assessment and the requirements of the relevant doctoral university.
6. Research Motivation and Collaboration
AITHYRA places emphasis on intellectual curiosity, interdisciplinary collaboration and willingness to learn.
Applicants should demonstrate that they can contribute meaningfully to research involving people with different scientific backgrounds.
7. Nationality
The programme welcomes students of all nationalities.
Eligible applicants from Cameroon, Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, India, Pakistan and other countries can therefore seek consideration.
Selection is based on academic suitability and the programme’s admission process, not nationality alone.
8. English Language
English is AITHYRA’s working language.
Applicants need to be capable of communicating effectively in an international research environment.
The current 2027 programme information does not establish a universal IELTS or TOEFL score requirement. Applicants should check the current application instructions and any additional requirements imposed by the degree-awarding university.
Can Students From Africa Apply?
Yes. AITHYRA welcomes international candidates from all countries, including African applicants.
Students from Cameroon and other African countries may apply if they meet the academic and programme requirements.
For example, a candidate with a Master’s degree in computer science and experience in machine learning may be eligible even without previous biomedical research.
Similarly, a graduate in molecular biology with strong laboratory experience may be considered despite limited programming knowledge.
A graduate in mathematics or statistics may also have relevant preparation, particularly where their academic work involves modelling, inference or computational methods.
However, candidates must demonstrate why they want to move into biomedical research.
A strong academic record alone is unlikely to explain that motivation.
AITHYRA PhD Programme 2027: Important Dates
| Application stage | Date |
|---|---|
| Application period begins | 1 September 2026 |
| Application deadline | 1 November 2026 |
| Selection hearings | 27–29 January 2027 |
| PhD programme starts | 1 September 2027 |
| Funding duration | Four years |
The application deadline is 1 November 2026.
As the deadline approaches, applicants should consult the official recruitment page immediately and avoid waiting until the final day.
The announcement lists the hearing dates, but applicants should follow any additional instructions provided by the recruitment team regarding interview arrangements.
How to Apply for the AITHYRA International PhD Programme 2027
Applications must follow the institution’s official recruitment procedure.
Step 1: Read the Current 2027 Vacancy
Start with the official AITHYRA International PhD Call in AI for Biomedicine.
Confirm the deadline, academic requirements, research focus and employment conditions.
The vacancy contains an application action that directs candidates into the relevant recruitment process.
Step 2: Assess Your Academic Eligibility
Review your qualifications against the programme requirements.
Candidates with a relevant Master’s degree should confirm that their degree will be completed by the required date.
Applicants relying on the exceptional four-year first-class bachelor’s pathway should verify their eligibility carefully.
Step 3: Research AITHYRA’s Scientific Direction
Before preparing your application, spend time understanding the institute’s research.
Consider which scientific questions interest you and how your previous training could contribute.
A computer scientist might be interested in generative models for biological data, while a biology graduate might want to investigate how computational methods can improve experimental research.
These are illustrative interests rather than confirmed project vacancies.
Step 4: Prepare Your Academic CV
Your CV should provide a clear account of your education, research experience, technical skills and relevant achievements.
Applicants should prioritise information that helps the selection committee understand their readiness for doctoral research.
For computational candidates, relevant evidence might include programming projects, mathematical modelling, machine learning research or scientific software development.
For experimental candidates, useful evidence might include laboratory techniques, research projects, scientific presentations and experience working with biological or chemical data.
Step 5: Develop a Convincing Motivation Statement
Your motivation should explain why AITHYRA’s interdisciplinary approach interests you.
Avoid relying on generic statements about artificial intelligence being the future of medicine.
Instead, connect your academic experience with a specific scientific problem or research direction.
For example, a candidate with experience in statistical modelling might explain an interest in applying probabilistic methods to complex biological datasets.
A chemistry graduate might describe how previous laboratory work led to an interest in computational approaches to molecular discovery.
These connections must reflect the applicant’s genuine academic background.
Step 6: Prepare Academic Records and Other Supporting Documents
Applicants should follow the document checklist presented in the current recruitment system.
Common materials to have ready include an academic CV, degree certificates, transcripts, evidence of research experience and a motivation statement.
The official 2027 vacancy text does not provide a complete document checklist in the announcement itself.
Candidates should therefore use the active application portal as the authority for mandatory uploads, referee requirements and accepted file formats.
Step 7: Complete the Official Online Application
Use the application route provided through the official AITHYRA vacancy.
Enter the required information accurately and upload all mandatory documents.
Check that your application is complete before submitting it.
Step 8: Prepare for Selection Hearings
The advertised hearing dates are 27–29 January 2027.
Candidates invited to participate should be ready to discuss their academic preparation, research experience, technical skills and reasons for pursuing interdisciplinary biomedical research.
The institute may communicate additional assessment requirements directly to shortlisted applicants.
Step 9: Follow Admission and Employment Instructions
Successful applicants will need to complete the relevant institutional and university procedures.
These may include employment documentation, doctoral registration and immigration formalities where applicable.
The programme is scheduled to begin on 1 September 2027.
AITHYRA Application Documents: What Should Applicants Prepare?
Although the current recruitment portal determines the final requirements, preparing essential academic documents early is sensible.
| Document | Preparation advice |
|---|---|
| Academic CV | Highlight relevant education, research and technical expertise |
| Degree certificate | Provide evidence of completed qualifications |
| Academic transcript | Show coursework, grades and academic preparation |
| Motivation statement | Explain research interests and fit with AITHYRA |
| Research experience | Summarise relevant projects, methods and contributions |
| References | Identify appropriate academic or research supervisors if requested |
| English-language evidence | Check the current portal and partner-university requirements |
| Identity documentation | Follow the instructions in the application system |
Applicants should not assume that every document in this preparation table is mandatory for the 2027 call.
The active recruitment instructions take precedence.
How to Write a Competitive AITHYRA PhD Motivation Letter
The strongest motivation letters are likely to demonstrate scientific preparation and intellectual curiosity rather than simply enthusiasm for studying abroad.
Establish Your Academic Foundation
Begin by explaining the area in which you have developed meaningful expertise.
A machine learning applicant might discuss experience with predictive modelling, neural networks or computational research.
A life science applicant might discuss experimental research, molecular techniques or scientific investigation.
Explain Your Interest in Biomedical AI
The selection committee needs to understand why you want to work at the intersection of computational and experimental sciences.
Identify a genuine research interest and explain how it developed.
A candidate who has never worked with biomedical data should not claim extensive experience in that area.
Instead, they can demonstrate how their existing skills provide a foundation for learning.
Demonstrate Research Readiness
Research experience can take different forms.
It may involve a Master’s thesis, laboratory investigation, computational project, independent research, scientific collaboration or other substantial academic work.
Explain what you actually contributed.
A statement such as “I developed a Python workflow to analyse experimental datasets and evaluated the limitations of the resulting models” provides more meaningful evidence than a broad claim about being passionate and hardworking, provided the work was genuinely undertaken.
Show That You Understand Interdisciplinary Collaboration
AITHYRA’s research environment depends on cooperation between people with different technical backgrounds.
Applicants can discuss situations where they learned unfamiliar methods, collaborated with researchers from other fields or solved problems requiring multiple forms of expertise.
Explain Your Longer-Term Research Interests
A clear research direction can strengthen an application.
However, candidates do not need to claim that they have already solved a biomedical problem or developed a complete doctoral thesis.
A thoughtful explanation of the scientific questions they want to investigate is more credible.
Do You Need Previous Publications?
The 2027 announcement emphasises academic preparation, research potential and interdisciplinary motivation.
It does not identify an existing publication record as a universal admission requirement.
Applicants with publications should include relevant work in their CV.
Those without publications should still present their strongest research evidence, including thesis work, substantial projects, laboratory experience or computational research.
The quality of the applicant’s preparation and suitability for the programme matter more than simply listing unrelated activities.
Do You Need to Contact a Professor Before Applying?
The official 2027 vacancy directs applicants through AITHYRA’s institutional recruitment process.
It does not establish a general requirement to secure an individual supervisor’s agreement before submitting an application.
Candidates should follow the current portal’s instructions rather than assuming that unsolicited emails to faculty members are required.
Researching potential supervisors and scientific groups can still help applicants understand the institute and prepare meaningful application materials.
AITHYRA and CeMM: Are They the Same Programme?
Applicants may encounter older announcements describing a joint AITHYRA–CeMM PhD programme.
CeMM is the Research Center for Molecular Medicine, another institute associated with the Austrian Academy of Sciences.
An earlier joint call involved both institutions.
However, the current September 2027 vacancy is published as the AITHYRA International PhD Call in AI for Biomedicine.
The official 2027 announcement identifies AITHYRA as the recruiting institute and lists the University of Vienna, TU Wien and Medical University of Vienna as academic partners.
Applicants should not automatically apply through an older AITHYRA–CeMM portal or rely on previous intake dates.
In particular, historical application instructions, selection timelines and salary figures may differ from those applicable to the 2027 intake.
Always use the current official vacancy.
What Is It Like to Pursue a PhD in Vienna?
Vienna offers an established research environment with universities, scientific institutes and international research communities.
AITHYRA is based at the Vienna BioCenter campus, allowing doctoral researchers to work within a broader life science research setting.
The institute uses English as its working language and brings together researchers from different countries.
This may make the research environment accessible to international candidates who are not fluent in German.
Nevertheless, living in Austria involves practical considerations beyond the research programme.
Successful applicants may need to arrange immigration documentation, accommodation, local registration and other administrative requirements.
They should also understand their expected net salary and personal living expenses before relocating.
How Does AITHYRA Compare With Other Funded PhD Opportunities?
The AITHYRA programme may appeal particularly to applicants interested in combining quantitative methods with biomedical research.
However, prospective doctoral students should compare opportunities based on research fit, academic requirements and funding structure.
| Feature | AITHYRA PhD 2027 | DIW Berlin Graduate Center PhD 2027 |
|---|---|---|
| Country | Austria | Germany |
| Main research focus | AI and biomedical sciences | Economics and related quantitative research |
| Duration | Four years | Approximately five years |
| Funding structure | Salaried doctoral employment | First-year stipend, normally followed by research employment |
| Initial advertised funding | Approximately €40,000 gross annually | €1,650 monthly stipend in the first year |
| Application deadline | 1 November 2026 | 15 January 2027 |
These programmes serve different academic interests.
Applicants specialising in economics, econometrics, finance-related research or public policy may find the DIW Berlin Graduate Center PhD Programme 2027 in Germany more closely aligned with their research plans.
Meanwhile, students interested in interdisciplinary scientific research in Austria may also wish to explore the ISTA PhD opportunities available through the Institute of Science and Technology Austria.
AITHYRA’s distinctive emphasis is on the integration of artificial intelligence and experimental biomedical research.
Common Application Mistakes to Avoid
Assuming a Biology Degree Is Compulsory
The programme explicitly welcomes computational applicants without previous biology training.
Eligible graduates in computer science, statistics, mathematics and related fields should not automatically exclude themselves.
Assuming Every Bachelor’s Degree Is Accepted
The exceptional bachelor’s route is limited and does not replace the normal Master’s requirement.
Applicants must satisfy the relevant academic conditions.
Confusing Gross and Net Salary
The advertised salary is gross.
The amount received after deductions will differ.
Applying Through an Outdated Portal
Older joint AITHYRA–CeMM recruitment information may relate to a previous intake.
Use the current 2027 vacancy.
Submitting an Unfocused Motivation Statement
Applicants should explain why their academic preparation is relevant to AITHYRA’s research.
General enthusiasm for artificial intelligence or medicine is insufficient without a credible connection to the proposed doctoral training.
Ignoring the Application Deadline
The 1 November 2026 deadline is approaching.
Applicants should verify submission requirements and complete their applications promptly.
Frequently Asked Questions About the AITHYRA PhD Programme 2027
Is the AITHYRA International PhD Programme 2027 fully funded?
Yes. The programme offers four years of salaried doctoral employment, insurance and funding for research-related expenses.
What is the salary?
The vacancy advertises approximately €40,000 gross annually, with a stated minimum of €2,832.10 gross paid 14 times each year.
When is the application deadline?
Applications close on 1 November 2026.
When does the programme begin?
The programme is scheduled to begin on 1 September 2027.
Can international students apply?
Yes. AITHYRA welcomes candidates from all nationalities who meet the academic requirements.
Can students from Cameroon apply?
Yes. Eligible applicants from Cameroon can apply, as can qualified candidates from other African countries.
Can a computer science graduate apply without biology experience?
Yes. The programme explicitly welcomes AI and machine learning applicants without biological backgrounds.
Can a biology graduate apply without advanced programming skills?
Yes. The programme also welcomes life science applicants without extensive computational experience.
Can I apply with a bachelor’s degree?
In exceptional cases, applicants with a four-year bachelor’s degree and first-class honours may be considered. They must also satisfy the relevant university admission requirements.
Is IELTS required?
The official 2027 programme information confirms English as the working language but does not establish a universal IELTS requirement. Applicants should consult the active application instructions and relevant university requirements.
Which university awards the PhD?
Depending on the doctoral arrangement, the degree is awarded by the University of Vienna, TU Wien or the Medical University of Vienna.
Is this a scholarship or a job?
It is a fully funded doctoral research opportunity supported through a salaried employment contract.
Does AITHYRA cover research expenses?
Yes. The official announcement states that funding covers research costs and work-related travel expenses.
Are accommodation and flights provided?
The announcement does not establish a universal entitlement to free housing or reimbursement of all relocation expenses. Applicants should confirm any specific assistance with the institute.
Are scientific publications compulsory?
The current announcement does not list publications as a universal requirement. Relevant research experience and academic preparation remain important.
When are the selection hearings?
The advertised dates are 27–29 January 2027.
Final Advice for Applicants
The AITHYRA International PhD Programme 2027 offers a valuable opportunity for graduates interested in pursuing doctoral research at the intersection of artificial intelligence, computational sciences and biomedicine.
Its four-year employment contract, approximately €40,000 gross annual salary, insurance benefits and access to advanced research infrastructure make it an attractive option for qualified international candidates.
The programme is particularly noteworthy because applicants do not need to begin with expertise in both computational and experimental sciences.
A strong computer scientist can develop biomedical knowledge, just as an experienced life scientist can develop new computational skills.
What matters is having a credible academic foundation, research potential and a genuine interest in interdisciplinary scientific work.
Applicants should read the official vacancy carefully, prepare their supporting documents and ensure that their application demonstrates a clear connection between their previous experience and AITHYRA’s research direction.
The deadline is 1 November 2026, and the programme begins on 1 September 2027.
With only a short period remaining before applications close, eligible candidates should prioritise completing the official application rather than delaying submission.
Official Links
1. AITHYRA – Official International PhD Call 2027
https://aithyra.at/about/open-positions/default-b3c40e586a8bccef92ff41a0c785d3c6
Use the current vacancy page to review the official announcement and access the application process.
2. AITHYRA – Official International PhD Programme Information
https://www.aithyra.at/about/phd-program
This page provides further information about the programme structure, eligibility requirements, funding, research environment and university partnerships.
