BOKU University - Inge Dirmhirn Award

Inge Dirmhirn Award

You will receive a one-off cash prize for a completed thesis on a gender- or diversity-related topic. The amount of the prize depends on the level of your work: 500 EUR for a Bachelor’s thesis, 1,000 EUR for a Master’s or diploma thesis, and 1,500 EUR for a doctoral thesis. The prize is awarded once a year by the Working Group for Equal Opportunities (AKGL) at BOKU (University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences) in Vienna.

Who can apply

• University: You are a student or graduate of BOKU in Vienna.
• Your thesis: Your Bachelor’s, Master’s or diploma thesis, or your doctoral thesis, has been completed and officially recognised.
• Topic: Your thesis deals with gender and/or diversity questions and relates to BOKU's subject areas. Creative and interdisciplinary approaches are especially welcome.
• Language: Your dissertation is written in German or English.
• Timing: You were awarded your degree between 1 January 2024 and 15 November 2026 (the date on your award decision).
• Field of study: Any topic is fine, as long as it has a clear focus on gender issues or diversity.
• Nationality: All nationalities can apply.

How to apply

Please email your application to the AKGL by 15 November 2026, ideally as a single PDF file. A panel of at least three members will review the applications and draw up a shortlist. Shortlisted candidates may be invited to give a short presentation or take part in a video call before the final decision is made.

How realistic are your chances?

This award is aimed at a small target group: you must be a student or graduate of BOKU, your thesis must already have been approved, and it must have a clear focus on gender or diversity. As a result, the pool of eligible theses is small. If your thesis does indeed cover this focus and you can outline the interdisciplinary or creative approach of your work in your covering letter, your chances are good. A convincing justification, backed up by a letter from your supervisor, is more important than a perfectly polished application.