Fully Funded Digital Humanism Fellowship in Vienna Opens Applications

The Institute for Human Sciences (IWM) in Vienna, Austria, is now accepting applications for its Digital Humanism Fellowship for the 2025-2026 session. This fully funded program provides a significant opportunity for scholars to conduct cutting-edge research on the multifaceted impacts of digital technologies on society. The fellowship offers a monthly stipend to cover living expenses, travel, accommodation, and health insurance, fostering an environment conducive to focused research and collaboration.

A Deep Dive into Digital Society

The Digital Humanism Fellowship at IWM aims to foster a deeper understanding of the complex interplay between technology and humanity. Fellows will have the chance to explore critical questions surrounding the ethical, social, and political implications of digital advancements. This initiative underscores the growing recognition of the need for interdisciplinary approaches to address the challenges and opportunities presented by the digital age.

Fellowship Details and Benefits

The fellowship program offers a comprehensive package designed to support the research endeavors of its participants. Key benefits include:

Monthly stipend: €3,300 for doctoral degree holders, €2,750 for current doctoral students. Coverage of travel, accommodation, health insurance, and living expenses. Dedicated office space with internet access at IWM. Access to IWM's research facilities and administrative support. Free in-house meals. Opportunity to collaborate with a vibrant community of researchers. Participation in lectures and conferences for a wider audience.

Program Structure and Duration

The fellowship program offers two distinct tracks:

Senior Visiting Fellowships: By invitation only, for a duration of one month. Junior Visiting Fellowships: Open to application for three consecutive months in Spring 2026.

Expert Perspective: The Importance of Digital Humanism

Dr. Anya Sharma, a leading researcher in digital ethics at the University of Oxford, emphasizes the critical role of programs like the Digital Humanism Fellowship. "As technology continues to permeate every aspect of our lives, it's crucial to foster critical reflection on its impact," Dr. Sharma notes. "This fellowship provides a vital platform for scholars to explore the ethical and societal implications of digital technologies, ensuring that innovation aligns with human values and promotes a more equitable future." She further adds that such programs are essential for shaping policy and guiding technological development in a responsible manner.

Historical Context and Current Relevance

The concept of "Digital Humanism" has gained increasing traction in recent years, reflecting a growing awareness of the need to balance technological progress with human well-being. Historically, technological advancements have often been pursued without adequate consideration of their social and ethical consequences. The Digital Humanism movement seeks to address this imbalance by promoting a human-centered approach to technology development and deployment. This fellowship program aligns with this broader movement, contributing to a more nuanced and responsible understanding of the digital landscape.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the Junior Visiting Fellowship, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Currently pursuing a doctoral degree or have completed a PhD within the last four years. Demonstrated research interest in digital humanism or related fields. Strong academic record and research potential.

Application Process

Interested applicants must submit their application through the online application form. Applications sent via email will not be considered. The application requires the following documents, combined into a single PDF file:

Letter of motivation. Project description summary. Project proposal. Curriculum vitae (CV). Two letters of recommendation.

The deadline for applications is September 21, 2025.

Apply Now: [Official Link - To be added by system]

Scholarships Corner's Commitment

Scholarships Corner is dedicated to providing comprehensive and accurate information on educational opportunities worldwide. We encourage all eligible candidates to apply for the Digital Humanism Fellowship and contribute to the ongoing dialogue on the future of technology and society. We strive to ensure the accuracy of the content and verify details from official sources, however, applicants are strongly encouraged to independently verify all information before applying.

For more information and to access the online application form, please visit the official website of the Institute for Human Sciences (IWM).