University Assistant Predoctoral / PhD Candidate in Quantum Optics and Microscopy at University of Vienna – Vienna, Austria

About the opportunity

The Faculty of Physics at the University of Vienna invites applications for a University Assistant (predoctoral / PhD candidate) position within the Quantum Optics and Microscopy team led by Professor Thomas Juffmann. The selected candidate will engage in advanced imaging experiments with applications in biosciences, pushing the boundaries of imaging resolution and speed. The research group is part of the Quantum Physics group, the Vienna Center for Quantum Science and Technology (VCQ), the Austrian Cluster of Excellence (quantA), and is affiliated with the Max Perutz Labs. This 4-year fixed-term position provides an opportunity to conduct interdisciplinary research spanning physics and biology.

Salary and benefits

• Basic monthly salary of EUR 3,776.10 on a full-time basis, paid 14 times per year, with potential increases based on verified prior professional experience.
• Four-year fixed-term employment contract, initially limited to 1.5 years and automatically extended to 4 years if no non-extension declaration is submitted within the first 12 months.
• Flexible working hours and opportunities for partial remote work.
• Access to over 600 free professional development courses through the Vienna Doctoral School and human resources department.
• Integration into an international academic team with strong connections to global quantum research hubs.

Who can apply?

• Completed a Master's degree or Diploma in physics.
• Practical experience with transmission electron microscopes.
• Excellent command of written and spoken English.
• Experience with LEEM, PEEM, or ONEM microscopes.
• Desirable qualifications include completed coursework in quantum optics and quantum metrology, experience with ray-tracing and wave optics simulations, background in quantum electron optics, and proficiency in Python-based data analysis workflows.

Required documents

• Scientific curriculum vitae.
• Motivation letter (maximum 1 page).
• Summary of previous academic and research achievements.
• Short statement of future research interests.
• Bachelor's and Master's degree certificates.

When to apply

• Job vacancy starting date: November 15, 2026.
• Application deadline: November 1, 2026.

How to apply

• Prepare the required application documents including your CV, motivation letter, academic summary, research statement, and degree certificates.
• Submit your application through the official University of Vienna job portal via the 'Apply now' button.

Additional information

• The working hours are 30.00 hours per week under the Collective Bargaining Agreement classification §48 VwGr. B1 Grundstufe (praedoc).
• The successful candidate is expected to present a research plan to the faculty and finalize a dissertation agreement within 12 to 18 months.
• Duties include participation in research, teaching (lab courses and exercise classes), and administrative tasks within the research group.