The SASTE (Supporting African Science and Tertiary Education) Grant provides talented postdoctoral scientists with the opportunity to collaborate with leading Austrian research institutions. Even better, it creates an environment where African researchers gain new skills, access high-tech facilities, and exchange ideas that enrich their home universities. The SASTE Grant has become one of the most influential opportunities for early-career African researchers who want to expand their expertise. Since the program focuses on Sub-Saharan Africa, it creates meaningful scientific exchange while strengthening long-term academic partnerships. As the 4th Call remains open until November 2025, researchers across the region now have an excellent chance to advance their work through a well-supported research stay in Austria.
Purpose of the Initiative
The grant aims to strengthen African tertiary education, upgrade research quality, and foster long-term partnerships. By giving researchers access to Austria’s advanced scientific infrastructure, the program helps them elevate ongoing projects at their home institutions.
Focus on Sub-Saharan Africa
To encourage regional balance, the program prioritizes applicants from a specific group of Sub-Saharan African countries. These countries receive preference during the ranking process, ensuring broader inclusion across the continent.
Who Can Apply for the SASTE Grant?
If you want to apply for the SASTE Grant, you must meet several academic and institutional criteria.
Postdoctoral Requirements
Applicants must:
- Be postdoctoral researchers under 42 years old (women may apply until age 45 if they have childcare responsibilities)
- Have between 3 and 7 years of postdoctoral experience
- Hold their PhD from outside Austria (preferred but not mandatory)
Institutional Requirements
To qualify, researchers must:
- Hold an active research position at a Sub-Saharan African university or research institution
- Have a contract confirming at least two more years of employment after the Austrian research stay
- Secure written confirmation from an Austrian host institution with a supervisor
- Avoid studying or working in Austria during the six months before the planned stay
Language and Professional Expectations
Because the working environment is international, applicants must demonstrate excellent English or German language skills. They should also show strong research experience that aligns with the proposed project.
Key Research Fields Supported by the SASTE Grant
The SASTE Grant encompasses several scientific fields that have a direct impact on African development.
Agriculture and Forestry
Researchers working on sustainable agriculture, food security, soil management, or forest ecosystems will find strong support under the grant.
Water Management and Renewable Energy
Projects exploring climate adaptation, water conservation, or clean energy technologies are also highly encouraged.
Health Sciences and Nutritional Science
The grant welcomes proposals from human medicine, veterinary medicine, and nutritional science, especially those addressing local health challenges.
How the SASTE Grant Strengthens African Research Capacity
Access to Austrian Research Ecosystems
Because Austria offers advanced scientific facilities, African researchers gain hands-on access to cutting-edge tools and processes. This exposure can boost innovation back home.
Enhancing Home Institution Research Output
Once applicants return to their home institutions, they apply their new knowledge directly to ongoing projects. This process strengthens university programs and enhances regional scientific output.
Application Timeline and Selection Priorities
The 4th Call stays open until November 2025, giving applicants enough time to prepare competitive proposals. Countries on the program’s priority list receive extra consideration.
How to Apply for the SASTE Grant
Required Documentation
Applicants must prepare:
- Confirmation of continued employment from the home institution
- Proposal explaining the novelty of the research
- A formal acceptance letter from the Austrian hosting institution
- Supervisor confirmation and resource availability
- Proof of language proficiency
For inquiries, reach out to:
Univ. Prof. Dr. DDr.h.c. Hubert Hasenauer
President of Africa-UniNet
BOKU University, Institute of Silviculture
Email: [email protected]
The SASTE Grant presents an exceptional opportunity for African scientists seeking to enhance their research skills, establish global networks, and foster academic excellence within their home institutions. With the call open until November 2025, now is the ideal time to prepare a strong and thoughtful application.
