An SFB – short for the German Spezialforschungsbereich (“special research program“) – is a long-term and interdisciplinary research program financed by the Austrian Science Fund FWF and co-financed by the participating universities.

These programs are funded for eight years; an interim evaluation after four years decides about the continuation.

The main goal is to create a network of closely collaborating and interdisciplinary research groups. This network facilitates a productive work environment in which researchers can tackle complex and multi-faceted topics from different angles and perspectives.

You may find more details here.