Fully Funded Digital Humanism Fellowship in Vienna Opens Applications for 2025-2026

The Institute for Human Sciences (IWM) in Vienna, Austria, is now accepting applications for its prestigious Digital Humanism Fellowship for the 2025-2026 academic year. This fully funded program offers exceptional scholars a unique opportunity to conduct cutting-edge research on the multifaceted impacts of digital technologies on society. The fellowship aims to foster a deeper understanding of the ethical, social, and political dimensions of the digital age, contributing to a more human-centered approach to technological development.

Fellowship Details and Benefits

The Digital Humanism Fellowship at IWM provides a comprehensive support package for selected fellows. This includes a monthly stipend designed to cover all essential expenses, such as travel, accommodation, living costs, and health insurance. The stipend amount varies based on academic qualifications, with doctoral degree holders receiving €3,300 per month and doctoral candidates receiving €2,750 per month.

Beyond financial support, fellows benefit from a stimulating research environment at IWM. This includes access to dedicated office space with internet connectivity, in-house research and administrative facilities, and complimentary meals. The program also facilitates interaction with a vibrant community of researchers through lectures, conferences, and other research-related activities.

Program Structure

The fellowship program offers two distinct tracks:

Senior Visiting Fellowships: These are awarded to established researchers by invitation only, with a duration of one month. Junior Visiting Fellowships: These are open to applicants currently pursuing a doctoral degree or who have completed their PhD within the last four years. The duration of these fellowships is three consecutive months in Spring 2026.

Expert Perspective on Digital Humanism

Dr. Anya Schmidt, a leading researcher in digital ethics at the University of Berlin, emphasizes the importance of programs like the Digital Humanism Fellowship. "As digital technologies become increasingly integrated into every aspect of our lives, it is crucial to critically examine their impact on human values and societal structures," Dr. Schmidt explains. "This fellowship provides a vital platform for scholars to conduct rigorous research and contribute to a more nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities presented by the digital age."

Historical Context and Current Relevance

The concept of "Digital Humanism" has gained increasing traction in recent years, driven by growing concerns about the potential negative consequences of unchecked technological advancement. Historically, technological progress has often been viewed as inherently positive, but recent debates surrounding issues such as algorithmic bias, data privacy, and the spread of misinformation have highlighted the need for a more critical and human-centered approach. The Digital Humanism Fellowship at IWM directly addresses these concerns by supporting research that explores the ethical, social, and political implications of digital technologies.

Eligibility and Application Process

The Junior Visiting Fellowship is open to applicants who are currently enrolled in a doctoral program or have completed their PhD within the past four years. A strong research proposal aligned with the themes of digital humanism is essential for a successful application.

The application process is entirely online. Applicants must submit the following documents in a single PDF file:

A letter of motivation A project description summary A detailed project proposal A curriculum vitae (CV) Two letters of recommendation

Applications submitted via email will not be considered. The deadline for applications is September 21, 2025.

How to Apply

Visit the official IWM website (link provided below). Complete the online application form, providing all required personal, contact, education, and employment details. Clearly articulate your project title and provide a comprehensive description of your research project. Enter the contact information for two recommenders who can speak to your academic abilities and research potential. Upload the required documents as a single PDF file. Carefully review the terms and conditions before submitting your application.

Official Link: [Insert Official Link Here - To be Added by Scholarships Corner]

A Gateway to Scholarly Advancement

The Digital Humanism Fellowship in Vienna represents a significant opportunity for emerging and established scholars to contribute to a critical and timely field of research. By providing financial support, a stimulating research environment, and access to a network of leading experts, IWM empowers fellows to advance our understanding of the complex relationship between technology and humanity.