About the opportunity
The OpNaQ research group (Optics of Nano and Quantum Materials) within the Department of Experimental Physics at the Institute of Physics, University of Graz, is seeking a motivated University Assistant without a doctorate. The successful candidate will engage in the development of integrated photonic imaging and sensing modalities, investigate underlying physical phenomena, and study light-matter interactions with a focus on photonic integrated systems. A core responsibility is writing a doctoral dissertation at the University of Graz. The role also involves participating in research projects, publishing findings in international journals, presenting at conferences, independently conducting teaching activities, supervising students, and assisting with organizational and administrative duties.
Salary and benefits
- Gross annual salary of €52,865.40 based on full-time employment (pro-rated for 30 hours per week)
- Meaningful work with a focus on future challenges
- Internal professional development and training opportunities
- Interdisciplinary and cross-functional collaboration
- Comprehensive benefits ranging from flexible working hours to access to 375 low-cost sports courses at USI
- Diverse and inclusive working environment supporting diversity
- Supportive work-life balance initiatives and flexible working arrangements
Who can apply?
- Completed diploma or master's degree in physics, photonics, or a related field by the time of appointment
- Good experimental and theoretical knowledge related to electromagnetic wave propagation, light-matter interactions, and integrated photonics
- Excellent written and spoken English language skills
- Scientific curiosity and interest in current research questions
- Independent working style and strong personal initiative
- Strong teamwork and organizational skills
Required documents
- Letter of motivation
- Academic CV
- Complete proof of completion of the required degree specified in the call
- Language proficiency proof required by the curriculum, if the doctoral program is not completed in the native language
When to apply
- Application deadline is November 13, 2026
- Employment is scheduled to begin in December 2026
How to apply
- Prepare all required application documents including motivation letter, CV, degree certificates, and language proof
- Submit the application exclusively through the University of Graz web-based applicant tool via the official job portal
Additional information
- The position is a fixed-term contract for 4 years with a working time of 30 hours per week (reference number 653 / 2026 / 2102).
- The University of Graz aims to increase the proportion of women, particularly in management and scientific staff, and encourages qualified women to apply.
- Applications from individuals with disabilities who possess the appropriate qualifications are welcomed.
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 opportunity for master's graduates in physics or photonics who want to pursue a structured PhD while conducting cutting-edge experimental and theoretical research.
- A strong fit for candidates seeking a funded academic position that balances independent research, scientific publishing, teaching experience, and professional development.
- Suits applicants interested in working within a collaborative, international-facing research group focused on optics and quantum materials.
What should you think carefully about?
- The position is fixed-term for four years, meaning candidates must plan for the temporary nature of the contract and doctoral timeline.
- Relocation to Graz, Austria, is required as the position involves on-site teaching, supervision, and laboratory or institutional research duties.
- The role is contracted for 30 hours per week rather than full-time, which requires managing both doctoral research and teaching/administrative workloads within part-time hours.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This 4-year assistantship provides an excellent stepping stone for early-career researchers aiming to complete a European doctorate in physics, build a publication record, and gain university-level teaching and mentoring experience.
Our take
Early-career physicists and photonics graduates eager to combine doctoral studies with hands-on research and teaching at a major Austrian university should strongly consider applying before the November 2026 deadline.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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