Klaus Liebscher Economic Research Scholarship 2026 – A Life-Changing Chance to Study in Austria

Imagine landing in the heart of Europe, funded to conduct advanced research at one of the continent’s most reputable institutions. That’s what the Klaus Liebscher Economic Research Scholarship 2026 promises. This opportunity is not just about funding—it’s about joining a global community of top-tier economists shaping policy and financial futures.

For many early-career researchers and postdoctoral economists, the pain point is clear: limited access to elite, well-paid research opportunities in stable, research-intensive economies. That’s why the Klaus Liebscher Economic Research Scholarship 2026 exists—to eliminate those limitations and give talented economists a place to grow and contribute.

If you’re ready to pursue high-impact research in a fully-funded capacity in Austria, this guide is your roadmap.

Klaus Liebscher Economic Research Scholarship 2026 – What Makes It Unique?

What Is the Klaus Liebscher Economic Research Scholarship 2026?

The Klaus Liebscher Economic Research Scholarship 2026 is a highly competitive funding program administered by the Oesterreichische Nationalbank (OeNB)—Austria’s central bank. It is designed to attract international researchers in the field of economics, finance, and monetary policy, offering them the opportunity to conduct high-level research projects at the OeNB’s Economic Analysis and Research Department in Vienna.

Unlike typical scholarships, this isn’t tied to academic coursework. It’s designed for postdoctoral researchers or mid-career professionals who already have a track record and want to push further.

🔗 Official OeNB Scholarship Page

Klaus Liebscher Economic Research Scholarship 2026 – What Does It Cover?

Scholarship Benefits and Financial Coverage

Here’s the exciting part: this isn’t just a symbolic grant or tuition offset. The Klaus Liebscher Economic Research Scholarship 2026 offers real financial independence during your stay in Austria.

💡 Bonus: Recipients are treated as independent contractors, so there’s no employment relationship with the bank.

That means more freedom and flexibility—ideal for visiting scholars and researchers focused on impact rather than red tape.

Klaus Liebscher Economic Research Scholarship 2026 – Eligibility Criteria

Who Can Apply for the Klaus Liebscher Economic Research Scholarship 2026?

This scholarship is for the serious and the ready. If you fit the criteria, don’t hesitate:

• You must hold a PhD or equivalent in economics or a closely related field
• You should be an active researcher with a strong publication record
• Applicants must have a non-Austrian affiliation (foreign institutions only)
• You should not have received the Klaus Liebscher Scholarship in the past
• You must propose a research project aligned with OeNB priorities

🔗 Download detailed eligibility criteria here

This scholarship is open globally, meaning you can apply from anywhere, as long as your research fits the macroeconomic and financial landscape Austria cares about.

 Klaus Liebscher Economic Research Scholarship 2026 – How to Apply

Step-by-Step Application Guide for Klaus Liebscher Economic Research Scholarship 2026

Here’s your simple game plan to nail the application:

Step 1: Develop a Solid Research Proposal

Your proposal must relate to one or more of the OeNB’s core focus areas:

• Monetary policy
• Financial stability
• Banking systems
• Macroprudential oversight
• Economic forecasting

Include:

• Title and abstract
• Background/lit review
• Research objectives
• Methodology
• Timeline
• Expected outcomes
• Relevance to OeNB research priorities

Step 2: Compile Application Documents

You’ll need to submit:

• Completed application form (download from OeNB website)
• Research proposal (as above)
• Detailed CV including your academic track record
• Publication list with peer-reviewed papers
• Letter of motivation
• Two reference letters

🔗 Download application form here

Step 3: Submit Application

All documents must be sent via email to: scholarship@oenb.at
Use subject line: “Klaus Liebscher Economic Research Scholarship 2026 – [Your Name]”

📅 Deadline: March 31, 2026 (based on past trends – always confirm on the official site)

Klaus Liebscher Economic Research Scholarship 2026 – Research Topics in Demand

Suggested Research Topics for Your Klaus Liebscher Scholarship Application

To improve your chances, align with trending research interests in the Austrian and European financial ecosystem. Some hot topics include:

Monetary Policy and Inflation Targeting

• Impact of interest rate shifts on inflation post-COVID
• Quantitative easing spillover effects in EU

Banking and Financial Regulation

• The role of macroprudential tools in financial crises
• Basel III and its implications on Eurozone banks

International Economics and Capital Flows

• Currency volatility and policy response in emerging markets
• Trade dynamics and policy reactions post-Brexit

Behavioral Economics

• Central bank communication and public expectations
• Risk perception in financial decision-making

Tip: Always justify the relevance of your topic to the Austrian or EU economic environment.

Top Mistakes to Avoid in Your Klaus Liebscher Application

Even smart candidates trip up by:

• Submitting a generic proposal not tailored to OeNB’s research agenda
• Overcomplicating the methodology without clarity
• Using outdated references or irrelevant datasets
• Forgetting to highlight practical implications for policy or financial stability
• Skipping proofreading—typos and poor formatting cost serious credibility

📌 Pro Tip: Review OeNB’s recent working papers to reference current frameworks.

Klaus Liebscher Economic Research Scholarship 2026 – Life and Research in Austria

What It’s Like to Live and Research in Vienna

If you’re worried about moving to Austria, relax. Vienna is consistently ranked the world’s most livable city.

Perks of doing research there:

• English-friendly academic environment
• Access to European Central Bank and EU policy hubs
• Rich historical and cultural scene
• Efficient public transport
• Great food, parks, and architecture

You’ll be based at the OeNB headquarters, rubbing shoulders with top researchers, policy experts, and economists. Think of it as research in action, not isolation.

 Who Should Apply?

Ideal Candidate Profile for the Klaus Liebscher Economic Research Scholarship 2026

This isn’t for fresh grads. It’s built for:

• Experienced postdoctoral economists
• Assistant or associate professors on sabbatical
• Researchers at central banks or financial think tanks
• Policy analysts with a PhD and publication record

If you have solid macroeconomic knowledge, advanced econometrics skills, and a focus on evidence-based policy research, this scholarship is your stage.

🌟 Why the Klaus Liebscher Economic Research Scholarship 2026 Is Totally Worth It

The Klaus Liebscher Economic Research Scholarship 2026 offers much more than money:

• Academic credibility
• Research autonomy
• Policy influence
• Networking with central bank economists
• A launchpad into top journals and advisory roles

So, if your dream is to influence central bank policy or publish impactful research in macroeconomics or finance, this scholarship is the smartest path forward.

FAQs 

1. Is the Klaus Liebscher Scholarship fully funded?

Yes. The monthly stipend of up to EUR 10,000 covers research, living, and relocation costs during your stay.

2. Can I apply if I haven’t completed my PhD yet?

No. You must hold a completed PhD in economics or a related discipline.

3. How many months is the research period?

Between 3 and 6 months, depending on your proposal and approval.

4. Can I bring dependents or apply for family allowances?

No family allowance is offered. The grant is paid as a lump sum.

5. Do I need to be fluent in German?

No. English is sufficient for all research and communication within the OeNB.