Jobs PhD Academic Jobs

University Assistant Predoctoral in the Research Area of Geoecology at University of Vienna

University of Vienna

Published on September 10, 2026

LocationAustria DeadlineSeptember 11, 2026 · CLOSED Job typePart-time International applicantsYes

About the opportunity

The Faculty of Earth Sciences, Geography and Astronomy at the University of Vienna is seeking a predoctoral university assistant in Geoecology. The position focuses on research and teaching regarding the ecological functioning of wetlands, integrating existing eddy covariance infrastructure (towers equipped with CO2, H2O, and CH4 sensors). The candidate will write a dissertation on greenhouse gas exchange in wetlands (Lake Neusiedl reed belt and Pürgschachen Moor), publish in high-impact journals, present at international conferences, teach independently, and become an active member of the Vienna International School of Earth and Space Sciences (VISESS) doctoral school.

Salary and benefits

  • Basic salary based on CBA §48 VwGr. B1 Grundstufe (EUR 3,776.10 gross/month on a full-time basis, 14 times per year, pro-rated for 30 hours/week), with potential increases for past professional experience
  • Flexible working hours and option for partial telework within Austria
  • Access to over 600 internal training and coaching courses free of charge
  • International academic team and fair working environment
  • Workplace easily accessible by public transport

Who can apply?

  • Master's degree or diploma in a natural science discipline (e.g., biometeorology, geoecology, soil science, or plant ecophysiology)
  • Proven skills in data analysis and programming (R or comparable programming languages) handling large datasets
  • Fluency in both English and German
  • Valid driving licence and willingness/ability to drive to field sites and work long hours on-site under adverse conditions
  • Determination and commitment to scientific excellence

Required documents

  • Scientific curriculum vitae and cover letter
  • Summary of research interests
  • Master's Degree / Diploma

When to apply

  • Application deadline: September 11, 2026
  • Expected position start date: November 1, 2026

How to apply

  • Submit your application online via the official University of Vienna job portal using the 'Apply now' button
  • Upload required documents including CV, cover letter, summary of research interests, and diploma

Additional information

  • Job ID: 6103
  • Contract term is 4 years (initially limited to 1.5 years, automatically extended to 4 years unless a notice of non-renewal is issued within the first 12 months)
  • Working hours: 30.00 hours per week
  • For inquiries, contact Stephan Glatzel at stephan.glatzel@univie.ac.at

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…

  • Hold a Master's degree in biometeorology, geoecology, soil science, or plant ecophysiology.
  • Experienced in handling large datasets using R or comparable programming languages.
  • Fluent in both English and German.
  • Possess a valid driver's license for field site access.

What should you think carefully about?

  • The position is part-time (30 hours/week), meaning the listed full-time salary is pro-rated.
  • You must be comfortable with demanding fieldwork, including driving to sites and working long hours in adverse conditions.
  • The contract begins with a 1.5-year initial term before automatically extending to 4 years.

How could this fit your current goals and plans?

This role is perfect for a researcher wanting to specialize in wetland greenhouse gas exchange using eddy covariance infrastructure. It combines a PhD dissertation with independent teaching and international conference presentations, making it a great stepping stone for an academic career.

Our take

A strong fit for biometeorologists or plant ecophysiologists with strong data skills and German fluency who want to focus on greenhouse gas exchange in wetlands.

Ready to apply?

Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.

✓

Official-source verified

Your weekly shortlist

Let the right opportunities find you.

Choose your interests and receive a clean, personalized digest. No noise.