Praedoc (Diss) (f/m/x) - Architectural Anthropology and Architecture
The Institute for Social Anthropology (ISA) of the Austrian Academy of Sciences (OeAW), Austria’s leading non-university research and science institution, is offering a position as
Praedoc (Diss) (f/m/x) - Architectural Anthropology and Architecture
with a focus on Ladakh
(11 hours per week, 27,5%)
for a duration of 30 months, starting 1 July 2026.
Your Tasks
We invite applications for one praedoc researcher position within the ERC-funded project ‘Climate and contemporary transformations of vernacular architecture,’ led by Docent DDr. Hubert Feiglstorfer. The project explores the impact of climate on transformations of vernacular architecture alpine and Himalayan regions. The praedoc will be carrying out research on contemporary structural transformation of high-altitude Himalayan architecture in Ladakh in context of climate and climate change.
Whilst there is flexibility to develop the details of the research project and specific theoretical approaches independently, candidates should be aware that they will be working in a group project, led by a Principal Investigator (PI) within a pre-defined research framework. This means they will have to contribute collaboratively to the project’s core research questions and objectives.
Your Profile
Essential qualifications and criteria:
- Fluent language skills in English.
- Previous research experience in Ladakh, as well as in-depth knowledgeof the history and politics of Ladakhof social dynamics in building crafts, house construction and village organisation in Ladakh
- Familiarity with the architectural and anthropological literature on planning, building, socio-technical transformation and adaptation
- Ability to work independently, including conducting fieldwork, data analysis and writing, plus develop original lines of inquiry
- Willingness to conduct collaborative fieldwork and writing with the PI and the research team.
- Show awareness of ethical considerations in fieldwork.
- Understand issues related to personal and participant security during fieldwork.Be prepared to join an existing research project and actively contribute to its central aims and collaborative inquiries.
- Be prepared to reside in Austria for the duration of the position (excluding fieldwork) and actively participate in project events.
- Support the project team in applying for a European Cooperation in Science and Technology (COST, https://www.cost.eu/) with the option to participate in the network developed.
- Submitting an article in the ERC-project monography in 2028 as single author or as co-author with a project team member, based on research findings.
Our Offer
- Funding for fieldwork, collaboration and attending conferences.
- Numerous voluntary social benefits
- Flex time arrangement
The minimum annual gross salary for this position is EUR 53.140,92 (full-time based), in accordance with the collective agreement of the Austrian Academy of Sciences (ÖAW). For part-time employment, the salary will be adjusted on a pro rata basis in line with the agreed working hours.
Please submit your application (max. 5 MB) via the online portal (see link below) including 1. Cover Letter (one page max), 2. Academic CV no later than 5 April 2026.
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.
