Applications are now open for the AITHYRA-CeMM PhD Program, an international PhD opportunity in AI-driven biomedical research, focusing on molecular technologies and systems medicine. This fully funded program offers 15-20 positions for candidates passionate about integrating artificial intelligence with life sciences to advance healthcare. The program, starting in January 2026, is hosted by AITHYRA and CeMM, institutes of the Austrian Academy of Sciences in Vienna, with support from the Medical University of Vienna and the Technical University of Vienna.
It targets early career researchers with a Bachelor’s (4-year, first-class honors or 2:1) or Master’s degree in fields like medicine, biology, chemistry, bioinformatics, computer science, or related disciplines, who must complete their degree by January 2026. The application deadline is 10 September 2025, and there is no application fee. This program is ideal for those eager to work in a collaborative, interdisciplinary environment on cutting-edge topics like cancer, immunity, and neurodegenerative disorders. You can also check more PhD positions here
Key Details
- Fields of Study: AI/Machine Learning, Molecular Technologies, Systems Medicine (focus on infection, immunity, cancer, neurodegenerative disorders, and more)
- Number of Positions: 15-20
- Funding: Fully funded (covers salary, research costs, university fees, and work-related travel for 4 years),Full insurance, healthcare services, subsidized cafeteria, and access to social, cultural, and sports activities
- Application Deadline: 10 September 2025
- Program Start Date: February 2026
- Application Fee: None
- IELTS/GRE: Not needed
- Location: Vienna, Austria (ranked world’s most livable city)
Interested in More PhD Positions? Follow links below
Research Focus
The program emphasizes AI-driven molecular medicine, with research areas including:
- Infection, immunity, and cancer
- Neurodegenerative disorders and aging
- Network medicine and patient-derived organoids
- Bioengineering and systems biology
- High-throughput genetics, genomics, and proteomics
- Development of deep learning and large language models for biological discovery
- Graph-based methods for molecular and cellular networks
- High-content imaging, chemical biology, and organic chemical synthesis
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Who Can Apply?
Eligibility Criteria
- A Bachelor’s (4-year, first-class honors or 2:1) or Master’s degree in:
- Medicine, biology, chemistry, bioinformatics, or computer science
- Related fields like engineering, physics, statistics, or mathematics
- Candidates must complete their degree by January 2026.
- Significant research experience for Bachelor’s degree applicants.
- Fluency in English (excellent written and verbal communication skills).
- Strong software skills, with hands-on experience in deep learning and/or wet lab techniques.
- A passion for AI in life sciences, interdisciplinary teamwork, and advancing personalized, predictive, and preventive medicine.
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Application Process
How to Apply
- Submit Online Application: Use the centralized online system to submit:
- Motivation letter
- CV
- Study certificates (or latest academic transcripts if degree is pending)
- Contact details of at least two referees (one must submit an online reference before submission; the second before the final deadline).
- Application Review: Faculty reviews applications (11 Sept. – 1 Oct. 2025).
- Video Interview: Record spontaneous video responses to questions (2 Oct. – 12 Oct. 2025).
- Video Interview Review: Faculty evaluates videos (13 Oct. – 29 Oct. 2025).
- In-Person Selection Event: Shortlisted candidates attend a three-day event in Vienna (26-28 Nov. 2025), including presentations, panel interviews, and meetings with research groups. Travel and accommodation assistance provided.
- Final Interviews: Selected candidates have 1:1 interviews with group leaders on the third day.
- Move to Vienna: Dec. 2025 – Jan. 2026.
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Application Timeline
- 25 July 2025: Call opens
- 10 September 2025: Submission deadline
- 11 Sept. – 1 Oct. 2025: Application review
- 2 Oct. – 12 Oct. 2025: Video interviews
- 13 Oct. – 29 Oct. 2025: Video interview review
- 26-28 Nov. 2025: In-person selection event
- Dec. 2025 – Jan. 2026: Move to Vienna
- February 2026: Program starts
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply before receiving my degree?
Yes, but you must obtain your degree certificate by January 2026. Upload your latest academic transcript if the certificate is unavailable.
Is an English language exam required?
No specific exam is required, but excellent English communication skills are mandatory.
Do I need a Master’s degree?
No, a 4-year Bachelor’s degree with first-class honors or 2:1 and significant research experience is sufficient.
Do I need to contact a group leader before applying?
No, candidates apply to a common pool, not specific projects or investigators.
