ISLAMABAD: Early-career researchers from Pakistan and other eligible countries can now apply for the Joint Excellence in Science and Humanities (JESH) Programme 2026, a prestigious international research fellowship offered by the Austrian Academy of Sciences (OeAW).
The program provides an opportunity for outstanding researchers to undertake fully funded research stays in Austria and collaborate with leading Austrian universities and research institutions.
Levels: PhD
Fields: All Fields
Offered By: Higher Education Commission HEC : (Click here to view all scholarships by this authority)
Local
07-07-2026
According to details shared by the Higher Education Commission (HEC), applications are currently open, and the deadline to apply is July 7, 2026.
What is the JESH Programme?
The Joint Excellence in Science and Humanities (JESH) Programme aims to strengthen international scientific cooperation by connecting talented researchers from around the world with academic institutions in Austria.
The initiative supports short-term research visits and encourages the exchange of ideas, expertise, and innovative research between international scholars and Austrian researchers.
Through the program, participants can conduct research projects, build academic networks, and gain exposure to Austria’s research environment.
Who Can Apply?
The fellowship is designed for early-career researchers who have completed their PhD and possess a strong academic and research background.
To be eligible, applicants must have:
- A completed doctoral degree (PhD)
- A maximum of 10 years of research experience after completing their doctorate
- An active research profile and academic achievements relevant to their field
The program welcomes researchers from a wide range of disciplines, including natural sciences, engineering, social sciences, humanities, health sciences, and interdisciplinary fields.
Duration of Funding
Selected researchers will receive funding for research visits ranging from:
- 1 month to 6 months
The fellowship allows scholars to work on research projects at eligible Austrian institutions while benefiting from international collaboration and academic mentorship.
Eligible Host Institutions in Austria
Under the JESH Incoming Programme, researchers can carry out their projects at:
- Austrian public universities
- The Austrian Academy of Sciences (OeAW)
- Publicly funded Austrian research institutions
These institutions provide access to advanced research facilities, academic expertise, and collaborative research opportunities.
Why This Opportunity Matters
International research fellowships are becoming increasingly important for academic career development. Programs such as JESH help researchers:
- Build international research collaborations
- Publish high-impact research
- Access advanced laboratories and research facilities
- Expand professional networks
- Strengthen future scholarship and grant applications
For Pakistani researchers, the fellowship offers a valuable opportunity to gain international exposure and contribute to global research initiatives.
Application Deadline
Researchers interested in applying for the JESH Programme 2026 must submit their applications by:
Deadline: July 7, 2026
Applications can be submitted through the Austrian Academy of Sciences' official fellowship portal.
The JESH Programme remains one of the notable short-term international research opportunities for early-career scholars seeking collaboration with Austria’s leading academic and research institutions.
