About the opportunity
The Faculty of Computer Science at the University of Vienna announces a funded predoctoral researcher position within the H4DES (haptic 4D printing for enhanced sensemaking) project, supervised jointly by advisors from the University of Vienna and TU Wien. The project explores how state-of-the-art 3D printing technologies can support people in understanding data through haptic information encoding, elastic object behavior, and conductive sensing materials for VR simulations. The successful candidate will conduct independent research leading to a dissertation, join the Doctoral School of Computer Science within 12 months, and assist with academic and administrative tasks. The employment contract is limited until the end of 2029, matching the project duration.
Salary and benefits
- Basic salary of EUR 2,832.10 gross per month for 30 hours per week, paid 14 times a year, with possible increases credited for prior professional experience
- Flexible working hours supporting work-life balance
- An international academic team environment in a healthy and fair working atmosphere
- Access to over 600 free internal further training and coaching courses for academic and personal development
- Easily accessible workplace via public transport
Who can apply?
- Relevant Master’s degree in Computer Science or a closely related field, with a specialization in Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), Data Visualization, Digital Fabrication, or Computer Graphics
- Strong interest in interdisciplinary research at the intersection of fabrication and HCI
- Programming skills in state-of-the-art technologies such as Python, C++, CUDA, WebGL, or Vulcan
- Experience with fabrication tools, particularly 3D printers
- Knowledge of quantitative and qualitative research methods, study design, thematic analysis, and statistical data analysis (e.g., R, Stata, SPSS)
- Experience with academic writing and familiarity with publishing processes
- Excellent English communication skills, both written and spoken
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a research team
Required documents
- Motivation letter (maximum 1 page)
- Complete CV including a list of academic achievements (maximum 2 pages)
- Master's curriculum transcript
- Abstract of the Master's thesis
- Research pitch outlining ideas for contributing to the H4DES project (maximum 1 page)
- Contact information for 1-2 academic references, such as the Master's thesis supervisor
When to apply
- Job vacancy starting date: November 1, 2026
- Application deadline: October 24, 2026
How to apply
- Prepare all required application documents including your CV, motivation letter, transcripts, and research pitch
- Submit your application through the official University of Vienna job portal by clicking the Apply now button
Additional information
- Job ID: 6337
- Classification CBA: §48 VwGr. B1 Grundstufe (praedoc)
- Working hours: 30 hours per week
- Joint supervision is provided by advisors from the University of Vienna and TU Wien
- The University of Vienna implements an anti-discriminatory employment policy and encourages qualified women to apply
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…
- An ideal match for master's graduates in computer science who want to pursue a structured PhD while working on cutting-edge physical computing and visualization.
- Well-suited for researchers with hands-on experience in 3D printing, digital fabrication, and programming environments like Python or C++.
- Offers a collaborative, cross-institutional environment with joint supervision between the University of Vienna and TU Wien.
What should you think carefully about?
- This is a part-time position set at 30 hours per week, which is structured around completing a PhD dissertation within a fixed project timeline.
- The contract is temporary and tied directly to the H4DES project lifecycle, concluding at the end of 2029.
- Applicants must be prepared to commit to joining the Doctoral School of Computer Science and finalizing a formal dissertation agreement within their first year.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This position offers an excellent stepping stone for individuals aiming for an academic career or advanced research roles at the intersection of human-computer interaction and digital fabrication. It provides stable funding, multidisciplinary mentorship, and dedicated time for dissertation work over a multi-year horizon.
Our take
Computer science graduates with a strong background in HCI, fabrication, or data visualization who are eager to undertake a structured PhD in Vienna should seriously consider applying before the October deadline.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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