MECS COE Application Portal

Joining MECS starts here

Our application portal will guide you through each step – from setting up your account to submitting your documents. The process is straightforward, and support is available if needed.

How to apply:

  • Register & log in
    Create an account and confirm it via email. Then set your password and follow the onscreen steps.

  • Complete your profile and application
    The portal will guide you through each section. Required fields are marked with an asterisk (*). Save regularly – autosave is not enabled.

  • Upload supporting documents
    Please upload only unencrypted PDF, JPG, or PNG files (max. 5 MB).

  • Review and submit
    Generate a PDF summary if needed. When everything is ready, click “Save and Submit” to finalize your application. After submission, changes are no longer possible.

  • Track your status
    Monitor your application progress under “My Progress” (visible when logged in). You’ll also be notified when references are received.

Important notes:
  • Applications must be submitted via the portal (no email or postal submissions).
  • No application fees apply.
  • Applications must be submitted in English only.
  • Incomplete applications will not be considered.

If you experience technical problems, please get in touch with André Vogel:
andre.vogel@tuwien.ac.at

Here is your way to register or log in:

Graduate school

Your PhD, Powered by MECS

At MECS, supporting early-career researchers isn’t just a priority – it’s part of our mission. Through our Graduate School, we offer an interdisciplinary, inter-university program shaping the next generation of energy innovators. The structured PhD program brings together five leading Austrian institutions and combines cutting-edge science with real-world impact.

The program is coordinated by TU Wien and builds on the existing doctoral schools at all participating universities as well as strong industry connections. Thanks to a unique “coregistration” model, PhD candidates enrolled at one university gain full access to the courses, training, and resources of all MECS partner institutions.

Beyond the standard doctoral curriculum, the MECS program includes:

  • additional training events and interdisciplinary lectures
  • secondments and collaborative research opportunities
  • access to a diverse network of academic and industry experts

Upon completion of the MECS program, our doctoral candidates will formally receive a degree from one of the five participating institutions, as well as a certificate issued by the TU Wien on completion of the MECS doctoral program, outlining their secondments, multiple advisors and the involvement of all five institutions.

Postdocs & Young Faculty

Fueling Scientific Independence

MECS actively supports early-career researchers – both postdocs and junior faculty – on their path to independent careers in and beyond academia. Our tailored development program combines scientific freedom with structured mentoring and practical resources.

We offer:

  • Mentorship & Networking
    Guidance from senior researchers and access to leading scientific communities

  • Research & Funding Support
    Small research grants, seed funding, and budget for conference participation

  • Recognition & Responsibility
    CoE Best Paper Award, opportunities to (co)supervise students

  • Training in Core Competencies
    Project management, leadership, funding acquisition, and presentation skills

  • Support for Innovation
    Proof-of-concept grants and tools for turning research into real-world impact

Interested in joining as a Postdoc?

See current opportunities here on this page. In addition to MECS-funded roles, you may also apply for prestigious postdoctoral fellowships like the Moritz Schlick Program or ISTbridge.

Want to join as a Junior PI?

Reach out directly to a member of the Board of Directors or a Pillar Head to discuss your vision and next steps.

Internships

First Steps into Research

Are you a bachelor’s or master’s student curious about gaining more research experience? MECS offers internships at our partner institutions for motivated students looking to gain technical know-how, explore new research environments, and contribute to active scientific projects.

Internships are a great way to:

  • get hands-on lab and research experience
  • explore career paths in science and innovation
  • connect with potential supervisors and future PhD opportunities
  • contribute to publications and collaborative projects

There are two ways to join:

  • Year-round internships
    Contact a MECS supervisor directly to inquire about current opportunities.
  • MECStern-ships
    Our branded internship format – calls are published here when available.