Looking to launch your PhD journey in Europe with a fully funded opportunity? The 2026 PhD Scholarships at the Medical University of Graz in Austria offer an exceptional opportunity for international students to pursue advanced research in life sciences and medicine. If you’re passionate about aging, cancer, immunology, or energy metabolism—and want to be part of a globally recognized research environment—this could be your gateway to success.
These competitive scholarships are tailored for students from all nationalities and provide a fully salaried PhD contract, along with full research and administrative support. Backed by Austria’s cutting-edge scientific infrastructure, the program prepares you for impactful research careers while integrating you into an interdisciplinary academic community.
About Medical University of Graz
Medical University of Graz is one of Europe’s leading institutions in translational and interdisciplinary medical research. The university boasts:
• A focus on real-world health challenges
• State-of-the-art laboratories and global faculty
• Strong ties to hospitals, pharmaceutical companies, and biotechnology firms
• English-taught programs and international student support
• Innovative research topics in aging, cancer, metabolism, immunology, and synthetic biology
Ranked among Austria’s top research institutions, the university welcomes students globally and supports them through its dedicated Welcome Center.
Graz Medical University PhD Scholarships 2026 Overview
Feature | Details |
Name of Scholarship | PhD Scholarships at Medical University of Graz |
Degree Level | PhD |
Host Country | Austria |
University | Medical University of Graz |
Fields of Study | Life Sciences, Medicine, Immunology, Cancer, Aging, Metabolism |
Duration | 3 Years (extendable) |
Funding Type | Fully funded working contract (30 hours/week) |
Stipend | Monthly salary + health insurance + social benefits |
Application Deadline | September 10, 2025 |
Instruction Language | English |
Nationality | Open to all nationalities |
Scholarship Benefits
- Fully funded PhD position for three years
- 30-hour work contract per week
- Monthly salary based on Austrian university employment standards
- Comprehensive health insurance
- Social benefits as per Austrian law
- Research support funding (including conference travel)
- Welcome Center guidance on visa/residence
- No application fee required
Eligibility Criteria
- Must hold or be about to complete a Master’s degree in natural or life sciences or medicine
- Must have completed a research-based Master’s thesis
- Fluent in English (written and spoken) – official proof required upon selection
- Open to students of all nationalities
- Must not require a supervisor’s contact in advance
- Should be available for on-site or online interviews in December 2025
Application Process
Follow these steps to apply successfully:
- Step 1: Explore open PhD projects from the official project list
- Step 2: Apply via the official PhD application portal
- Step 3: Submit documents including CV, transcripts, research experience, proof of English proficiency
- Step 4: Shortlisted candidates will be invited for online pre-interviews (calendar week 38)
- Step 5: Finalists will attend in-person hearings in Graz (Dec 09–11, 2025); travel reimbursement available
- Step 6: Final admissions and onboarding will be managed by the Welcome Center
Available PhD Research Projects
You can apply to multiple innovative research projects, including:
- Decoding and Targeting Mitochondria–ER Crosstalk in Aging
- Characterization of PNPLA3 Enzyme Function
- Autoimmunity Against Non-Protein Targets in Heart Disease
- Harnessing Immunogenic Cell Death in Lung Cancer
- Development of Next-Gen Potassium Ion Biosensors
- Direct Targeting of Therapy-Resistant Leukemic Stem Cells
- Synaptic Bioenergetics in Neurodegenerative Diseases
- Translational Models for Chronic Wound Healing
- Fuel Metabolism in Beta Cell Preservation
Full project descriptions are available in this PDF
Comparison with Similar PhD Opportunities
Program | Country | Fully Funded | Monthly Stipend | Language | Duration |
Medical University of Graz PhD Scholarships 2026 | Austria | ✅ Yes | €1,500+ | English | 3 years |
ETH Zurich PhD | Switzerland | ✅ Yes | CHF 2,500+ | English | 3-4 years |
Max Planck PhD | Germany | ✅ Yes | €2,000+ | English | 3 years |
KU Leuven PhD | Belgium | ✅ Yes | €2,200 | English | 4 years |
University of Helsinki PhD | Finland | ✅ Yes | €2,000 | English | 3-4 years |
FAQs About Graz Medical University PhD Scholarships 2026
- Q1: Can I apply without finishing my Master’s degree?
Yes, but you must graduate before September 2025. - Q2: Is there an application fee?
No, applying to this PhD program is completely free. - Q3: Should I contact my supervisor before applying?
No, direct supervisor contact is not necessary. - Q4: Is English proficiency mandatory?
Yes. You must submit proof before final admission. - Q5: Are travel costs covered for interviews?
Yes, travel for in-person interviews in December 2025 is reimbursed (within limits). - Q6: What if I can’t attend in-person interviews?
You can participate in online interviews with the faculty. - Q7: Is this program open to all nationalities?
Yes, students worldwide are encouraged to apply. - Q8: What is the interview process for Medical University of Graz PhD Scholarships 2026?
It includes an online pre-interview and an in-person hearing at the university. - Q9: Will I get help with visa/residence permits?
Yes, the Welcome Center will guide you through the visa process. - Q10: Is there flexibility in choosing research projects?
Yes, you may apply to multiple listed projects that match your interest.
If you’re ready to elevate your research career with hands-on experience in cutting-edge biomedical projects, this is your moment. Apply to the Medical University of Graz PhD program before September 10, 2025, and join a vibrant community of future researchers shaping the world’s medical innovations. APPLY NOW.
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