The Erich Schmid Institute of Materials Science of the Austrian Academy of Sciences (ÖAW), Austria’s leading non-university research and science institution, is offering a Position as

PostDoc Position (F*M*X) (40 hours per week)

in the framework of the project “Nanoengineering metallic glasses”, funded by the Austrian Science Fund (FWF), for a 1-year term of employment.

The aim of the project is to decouple the effect of atomic structure and chemistry on the mechanical properties of metallic glasses though advanced synthesis and characterization techniques. A strong focus will be the effect of oxygen as an alloying element. The project will be carried out in collaboration with research partners at the CNRS, France. It represents fundamental research, but it is expected that the outcome will lead to new design strategies for improving mechanical properties in metallic glasses.

Your Tasks

The successful candidate will be part of an international team whose research activities focus on the synthesis, advanced nanocharacterization and atomistic simulation of complex materials. The candidate’s task will focus on exploring the effect of local atomic structure and chemistry of thin film metallic glasses on strain localization during in situ deformation in the TEM using 4D-STEM. 

This requires mastering complex experiments and developing data analysis routines. The candidate will work closely with colleagues within the institute and the project partners at CNRS, France. The candidate is expected to present the findings at international conferences and publish the results in top international journals.

Your Profile

• PhD in Materials Sciences, Physics or equivalent.
• Background in programming and data analysis.
• Interest in learning new complex experimental techniques and developing custom data analysis routines using python scripting.
• Excellent communication skills in spoken and written English.
• We are seeking independent, responsible and team-oriented candidates.

Our Offer

We offer an international, ambitious environment for basic research-oriented candidates who want to perform cutting-edge research with open access to world-class synthesis and characterization facilities. We have a friendly and dynamic research environment and strong collaborations with many international academic partners.

The appointment begins as at the earliest possible date (ca. December 2025). Gross salary will € 4.932,90 according to the standard salaries for FWF projects for 40 hours per week (14 times a year, before taxes). 

Please send your application including a motivation letter and an academic CV no later than October 15th, 2025. Evaluation of candidates will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled. Please note that only complete applications will be processed.

The Austrian Academy of Sciences (OeAW) pursues a non-discriminatory employment policy and values equal opportunities, as well as diversity. Individuals from underrepresented groups are particularly encouraged to apply.