About the opportunity
The University of Vienna is seeking a predoctoral university assistant to join the Aerosol Physics and Environmental Physics Group as part of the SPACETRACE research platform. This project focuses on investigating stratospheric aerosol particles, including those originating from space debris, and their impact on the atmosphere, climate, and society. The successful candidate will analyze datasets from the NASA WB-57 high-altitude aircraft and utilize the Cloud, Aerosol and Precipitation Spectrometer (CAPS) during NOAA’s SABRE measurement campaigns.
Salary and benefits
- Basic salary of EUR 3,776.10 (full-time basis, 14x per year), which may increase based on professional experience.
- Employment duration of 4 years (initially limited to 1.5 years, with automatic extension to 4 years if not terminated within the first 12 months).
- Access to over 600 free internal training and coaching courses.
- International academic team and a fair working environment.
- Workplace located in the center of Vienna with good public transport connections.
Who can apply?
- Master's degree or Diploma degree in physics and/or aerosol-related topics (e.g., atmospheric sciences, aerosol chemistry, or meteorology). Bachelor's with Honors may be considered in exceptional cases.
- Knowledge in atmospheric/aerosol physics and in-field experimental work.
- Programming experience (e.g., Python) for data analysis.
- Excellent command of written and spoken English (C1 level or higher).
- Willingness to travel internationally for measurement campaigns (typically several weeks per year), specifically to the USA and other countries.
- Willingness and ability to participate in research flights and operate instruments onboard.
- Class B driving license.
- Strong team player with good social and communication skills.
Required documents
- Scientific curriculum vitae
- Summary of academic and research achievements
- Statement of research interests
- Bachelor's and Master's degree certificates
When to apply
- Application deadline: 08/27/2026
How to apply
- Submit a scientific curriculum vitae.
- Provide a summary of previous academic and research achievements.
- Include a short statement on future research interests.
- Submit Bachelor's and Master's degrees (Bachelor's with Honors may be considered in exceptional cases).
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…
- Holders of a Master's or Diploma degree in physics or aerosol-related topics.
- Those with Python programming skills for data analysis and C1 English proficiency.
- Individuals with a Class B driving license and the ability to operate instruments on research flights.
What should you think carefully about?
- The position requires international travel for several weeks per year, including trips to the USA.
- The initial contract is limited to 1.5 years, though it is automatically extended to 4 years if not terminated within the first year.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This is a premier opportunity for a predoctoral researcher to gain high-level experimental experience with NASA and NOAA data, building a strong foundation for a PhD in aerosol physics and environmental physics.
Our take
Highly recommended for physics graduates with a strong interest in atmospheric science and a willingness to travel for field work.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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