About the opportunity
The Centre for Microbiology and Environmental Systems Science at the University of Vienna conducts internationally leading research in microbial ecology and environmental systems science. Its Department of Microbiology and Ecosystem Science offers an interdisciplinary scientific environment, cutting-edge laboratories, and a creative working atmosphere. The Doctoral School in Microbiology and Environmental Science supports PhD students in the finishing phase of their dissertation through short-term completion contracts. These positions are designed for students who have signed a doctoral thesis agreement and have already made significant progress in their doctoral research project.
Salary and benefits
- Fair gross base salary of EUR 3,776.10 on a full-time basis, paid 14 times per year, with potential increases based on recognized prior professional experience.
- Flexible, family-friendly working hours with remote, hybrid, and part-time work options available upon agreement.
- Access to over 600 free internal courses for continuous skills development, training, and coaching.
- Workplace located in the center of Vienna with excellent public transport connections.
- Opportunity to work within an international academic team in a healthy and fair working environment.
Who can apply?
- Hold a diploma or master's degree in biology, molecular biology, or an equivalent qualification.
- Have a signed doctoral thesis agreement.
- Demonstrate excellent academic and study records.
- Possess an excellent command of written and spoken English with a high ability to express yourself both orally and in writing.
- Display excellent team-working abilities.
Required documents
- Letter of motivation, including a time plan for doctoral thesis milestones to be achieved during the duration of the short-term contract.
- Academic curriculum vitae, including a list of publications and conference attendances.
- Confirmation of admission for the current academic semester.
When to apply
- Application deadline is October 29, 2026.
- Job vacancy starting date is November 15, 2026.
How to apply
- Prepare the required application documents, including your motivation letter with a timeline, academic CV, and semester admission confirmation.
- Access the University Jobcenter online application portal.
- Click the Apply now button to submit your application directly.
Additional information
- This is a limited contract until 2 months.
- Working hours are 30.00 hours per week.
- Classification CBA: §48 VwGr. B1 Grundstufe (praedoc).
- Job ID: 6340.
- Given equal qualifications, preference will be given to female candidates.
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Advanced PhD candidates in biology or molecular biology who are in the final stages of writing their dissertation and need dedicated writing time.
- Researchers looking for financial support and institutional backing to complete specific dissertation milestones and publications.
- Individuals seeking an international academic environment within a leading European research university.
What should you think carefully about?
- The contract duration is strictly limited to 2 months, providing a very short timeframe to achieve proposed milestones.
- The position requires physical presence or coordination in Vienna, Austria, necessitating appropriate relocation or local residence planning.
- The contracted working hours are set at 30 hours per week, which represents a part-time academic appointment.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This completion contract directly serves the goal of clearing the final hurdles of a doctoral degree by providing dedicated time, funding, and mentorship. It acts as a bridge to successfully finalize a dissertation, produce required publications, and transition to postdoctoral or industry roles.
Our take
This opportunity is ideal for doctoral candidates in microbiology or molecular biology who are very close to finishing their thesis and need short-term financial and institutional support. It is less suitable for students in early research phases or those requiring long-term funding commitments.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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