You’re deep into your postdoctoral journey, navigating papers, ideas, maybe even publications, and then—this scholarship pops up. The Klaus Liebscher Economic Research Scholarship at Austria’s central bank (OeNB) is that rare, energizing chance to bring your economic or finance research into a policy-shaping environment. I’ll break it all down for you—why it matters, who fits, what you get, and how to give your application the best shot.
Brief Overview:
- Program: OeNB TagKlaus Liebscher Economic Research Scholarship 2026
- Coverage: Up to €10,000 consultancy fee
- Nationality: International
- Degree Level: Postdoctoral researchers (PhD or equivalent)
- Duration: 3–6 months
- Institution: Oesterreichische Nationalbank (OeNB)
- Host Country: Austria
Purpose of the Program
This scholarship isn’t a typical tuition grant—it’s built to let brilliant postdoctoral researchers collaborate with the OeNB’s Economic Analysis and Research Department. In essence, they’re offering a consultancy space: you share your expertise, they get your insights, and together you contribute to real-time economic thinking in Vienna. It’s not just about research; it’s about synergy between academia and economic policy.
Check out: Study in UAE: Everything You Need to Know About UAE Student Visa 2025
Eligibility Criteria
So, who fits the bill? Let’s talk fit, clearly:
- You need a PhD or equivalent in economics, finance, or a closely related field.
- You should have a solid publication record and postdoctoral research under your belt
- Must be actively employed by a recognized research institution, in Austria or anywhere else—this is about bringing your ongoing work into a new context.
- Open to all nationalities, no age cap.
- You must be a natural person, and only one application per person is allowed.
- If you’ve already received this scholarship before, you’re not eligible to apply again.
- Employees of the European Central Bank or other ESCB central banks cannot apply.
Check out: University of Brighton UK CDH International Visiting Research Fellowship 2025
Benefits
Here’s the really exciting part: what you get.
- A consultancy fee up to €10,000, net of VAT. If you’re subject to VAT, they bump you up accordingly.
- The timeframe spans 3 to 6 months, depending on what you propose and the project’s scope.
- OeNB may assist with accommodation in Vienna, though costs are on you.
Deadline
Mark your calendar—this one’s important:
- Deadline for applications is October 31, 2025.
Application Process
The process is straightforward but takes care:
- Compile all materials into a single PDF:
- Motivation letter (include your desired consultancy period)
- Detailed consultancy proposal
- Current research description
- Academic CV
- Publication list
- Two referees’ names (OeNB may contact them)
- Evidence of employment (e.g., contract)
- Written confirmation from your institution that this consultancy is allowed under your contract.
- Email your PDF application to scholarship@oenb.at by October 31, 2025.
Why This Scholarship Truly Stands Out
There’s something deeper here than money—it’s about merging your research trajectory with policy relevance, right in Vienna:
- You get real visibility and impact, moving beyond the academic paper into policy conversation.
- OeNB’s environment is stimulating—close to economic policymaking, with serious research credibility.
- Financial cushion of up to €10,000 makes your work possible, and meaningful.
- Networking advantage: you’re not just consulting—you’re building a European research footprint.
- The application is direct and transparent, with clear timelines.
Applying with Your Voice: Gentle Advice
- Start early—your proposal should feel thoughtful, not rushed, and your referees should know what’s coming.
- Think strategically—how will your work connect to OeNB’s research landscape? Be curious.
- Be concise but personal—explain why Austria, why OeNB, what excites you—this is your story.
- Don’t skip compliance—that employment confirmation is a formality you can’t skip.
- Visualize the impact—imagine your research sitting at the intersection of academia and central banking.
Official program link
Visit the official Klaus Liebscher Economic Research Scholarship page at OeNB
You’ve made it this far—so pause, picture yourself in Vienna, collaborating, contributing, evolving. This isn’t just an opportunity—it’s a step into the global research arena. You’ve got this. If it’s resonating, let your passion show and go for it.