Doctoral Programme in Physics
The Doctoral Programme in Physics places a strong emphasis on training creative, critical and self-motivated researchers. Embedded in an international diverse community with English as working language and access to state-of-the-art facilities, doctoral candidates are guided by world experts in quantum science, material science, environmental physics and foundational physics. Beyond independent research, doctoral candidates choose from advanced courses on a broad range of scientific topics as well as from transferable skills training to push research boundaries and succeed as innovators. Further benefits such as mentoring, mobility funding and networking opportunities are open to members of the VDSP.
Admission requirements
Admission to the doctoral programme is possible throughout the year.
Supervision:
- You need a supervisor at the University of Vienna to be admitted to a doctoral programme. Read more about Supervision and Topics
- Willingness to supervise (PDF)
- List of potential supervisors
Required Documents:
- Certificates, Transcripts of record and Diploma supplement of your previous studies (BA and MA or diploma studies)
- Academic CV, Description of the intended doctoral project, Motivation letter - to the guidelines
- References: Please list two references in your CV (email contact obligatory)
- Language proof (optional)
- Passport/personal ID
Vienna Doctoral School in Physics
All doctoral candidates are expected to join the Vienna Doctoral School in Physics (VDSP) - a community comprising 180 PhD students in Physics, from more than 40 different countries. The VDSP offers progress monitoring, supports international mobility, provides networking opportunities inside and outside academia and encourages students to take an active role in shaping the community.
The majority of the doctoral candidates in Physics receive employment contracts with social benefits for 3 – 4 years depending on their research project. After graduation they progress to roles for instance in academia and public research (universities, national labs), R&D across technology-driven industries (semiconductors, energy/climate, aerospace, quantum/optics, materials/manufacturing), software/data/AI, finance, and healthcare/medical physics, as well as consulting, policy/regulation, intellectual property, and entrepreneurship.
Would you like to consult with experts?
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Doctoral Admission
Questions about admission to the doctoral programme?
The Doctoral Admission Office can help with information on the application process and admission requirements.
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Doctoral School
Your Doctoral School supports you with information on the programme, its structure, and a wide range of training and support opportunities.
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Study Service Center (SSC)
For administrative questions during your studies – such as course registration, recognition of external coursework, or the public presentation – please contact the Student Service Center.
Online information sessions
Join our regular online information sessions to learn more about doing a doctorate at the University of Vienna.
In the sessions, we cover key topics such as admission procedures and requirements, funding opportunities, and visa and residence requirements. You’ll also have the chance to ask questions and connect directly with our experts.
