Scientific Project Assistant in Spatial Planning (Predoctoral) at University of Vienna

About the opportunity

The University of Vienna is seeking a highly motivated scientific project assistant (predoctoral) for the Faculty of Earth Sciences, Geography and Astronomy. Working within a team led by Professor Meike Levin-Keitel, Head of the Department of Geography and Regional Research, this position is part of the FWF-funded inter- and transdisciplinary research project ‘ADJUST – Adaptation for Just and Sustainable Transitions’. The project combines planning approaches, migration studies, and spatial data science to make climate adaptation more just and efficient. As a doctoral student, you will contribute to addressing relevant socio-spatial processes, conduct comparative analyses on urban heat stress, participate in scientific studies and publications, and complete your dissertation agreement within 12 to 18 months as part of the VISSES Doctoral School.

Salary and benefits

• Gross salary of EUR 3,714.80 per month on a full-time basis (30 hours per week contract), which increases with credited professional experience.
• Enrollment and integration into the VISSES Doctoral School.
• Flexible working hours and the option to partially work from home within Austria upon agreement.
• Opportunity to participate in over 600 free internal training and coaching courses.
• An inspiring working atmosphere within an international academic team.

Who can apply?

• Hold a master's degree awarded with distinction in Spatial Planning or a related and relevant discipline.
• Demonstrate a strong interest in planning-related topics and a passion for developing innovative methodologies for interdisciplinary research.
• Possess excellent knowledge of qualitative and/or quantitative social science research methods.
• Provide proof of excellent written and spoken English and German proficiency.
• Show a self-motivated, growth-oriented mindset with strong independent and collaborative teamwork skills.

Required documents

• Motivation video (maximum length: 3 minutes) illustrating your passion for innovative spatial planning, shared via a link in your scientific CV.
• Scientific curriculum vitae.
• Two-page concept note outlining your ideas for the doctoral project.
• Degree certificates.
• Master's or diploma studies in PDF format.

When to apply

• Application deadline: November 23, 2026.
• Job interviews scheduled for December 3 and 4, 2026.

How to apply

• Prepare your motivation video and upload or host the file to obtain a shareable link.
• Compile your scientific CV, two-page concept note, degree certificates, and master's/diploma thesis in PDF format.
• Submit your complete application package online via the University of Vienna job portal using the 'Apply now' button.

Additional information

• The position starts on January 1, 2027.
• Working hours are 30 hours per week under classification CBA §48 VwGr. B1 Grundstufe (praedoc).
• The initial contract duration is limited to one year (until December 31, 2027) with the possibility of extension by mutual agreement up to December 31, 2030.
• Willingness to conduct fieldwork outside of Vienna is required.
• Interviews can be conducted online if necessary.