About the opportunity
The Computational and Soft Matter Physics Group at the Faculty of Physics invites applications for a predoctoral position in the group of Prof. Christos Likos. The group develops theoretical and computational models to study soft condensed matter systems, statistical mechanics, and structure formation. The successful candidate will work on problems related to the collective self-organization of active polymers and swimmers under full consideration of hydrodynamics. The employment duration is 3 years, initially limited to 1.5 years with automatic extension if not terminated within the first 12 months. Responsibilities include conducting research toward a dissertation, contributing to teaching lab courses and exercise classes, assisting with group administration, and participating in public outreach.
Salary and benefits
- Basic monthly salary of EUR 3,776.10 on a full-time basis, subject to increases based on credited professional experience
- Flexible working hours and partial remote work options
- Participation in an international academic team with internal further training and coaching opportunities covering over 600 courses free of charge
- Access to the Welcome Compass to support relocation and settlement in Vienna
- Good public transport connections
Who can apply?
- Master of Science degree in physics or chemistry
- Experience with molecular simulation methods (MD/MC) and rare event simulation approaches
- Excellent knowledge of statistical mechanics and very good knowledge of polymer physics
- Excellent command of written and spoken English
Required documents
- Letter of motivation
- Curriculum vitae
- List of publications
- Degree certificates
When to apply
- Application deadline: November 1, 2026
- Job vacancy starting date: December 1, 2026
How to apply
- Prepare all required application documents including your motivation letter, CV, publication list, and degree certificates.
- Access the official University of Vienna job portal and submit your application online using the Apply now button.
Additional information
- The position is classified under the collective bargaining agreement as §48 VwGr. B1 Grundstufe (praedoc).
- Working hours are 30.00 hours per week.
- The contract is limited until November 30, 2029.
- For content questions, applicants can contact Christos Likos at christos.likos@univie.ac.at.
- The University of Vienna has 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…
- Strong background in physics or chemistry with specialized knowledge in statistical mechanics, polymer physics, and molecular simulations.
- Interest in pursuing a structured doctoral dissertation within an active, international research group specializing in soft condensed matter physics.
- Commitment to combining independent theoretical research with teaching responsibilities and academic outreach activities.
What should you think carefully about?
- The position is offered on a 30-hour part-time contract basis rather than full-time employment.
- The initial contract duration is limited to 1.5 years with an automatic extension to 3 years conditional upon review.
- Relocation to Vienna, Austria is required for the duration of the employment contract.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This predoctoral position offers an excellent entry point for an early-career researcher aiming to complete a PhD in theoretical physics within a prominent European university. It provides structured doctoral mentorship, teaching experience, and integration into a collaborative international research environment.
Our take
Candidates holding a Master's degree in physics or chemistry with a strong foundation in statistical mechanics and molecular simulation who wish to pursue an academic career in soft matter physics should seriously consider applying before the November 2026 deadline.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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