The University of Vienna is a community of over 10,000 individuals, including approximately 7,500 academic staff members, who passionately pursue answers to the profound questions that shape our future. Fueled by curiosity and a deep sense of duty, they contribute invaluable insights to research and teaching, enriching our society. Are you inspired and driven by the desire to make a meaningful impact? We are currently seeking a/an

University Assistant postdoctoral 

91 Centre for Microbiology and Environmental Systems Science  

Job vacancy starting: 10/01/2025 | Working hours:  40,00  | Classification CBA: §48 VwGr. B1 lit. b (postdoc) 

Limited contract until: 09/30/2028

Job ID: 4462

Explore and teach at the University of Vienna, where over 7,500 brilliant minds have found a unique balance of freedom and support. Join us if you’re passionate about groundbreaking international research and academic excellence. Ready to be part of our team? Let’s shape the future together!

Your personal sphere of play:

Your future position will be based at the Department of Environmental Geosciences (EDGE), a center of cutting-edge research focused on the fundamental processes that govern the natural environment and the effects of human activity. At EDGE, researchers integrate field observations with experimental studies, bridging molecular-level interactions at environmental interfaces with complex, large-scale environmental dynamics through quantitative modeling. 

EDGE actively addresses the challenges posed by both established and emerging pollutants. The department is committed to advancing our understanding of their impacts on soils, groundwater, and surface waters through process-oriented and mechanistic research approaches. With this position, we specifically aim to address the globally important fate of metals and metalloids in complex environmental matrices, focusing on their speciation, bioavailability, and interfacial processes, using our unique state-of-the-art techniques available in the department, including single-particle time-of-flight mass spectrometry (spICP-TOFMS) and hyphenated LC-ICP-MS facilities. 

EDGE is part of the Centre for Microbiology and Environmental Systems Science (CeMESS). Both staff and students value the multidisciplinary and international environment that defines both CeMESS and EDGE. Drawing on diverse expertise and backgrounds, our researchers explore the critical biotic and abiotic processes that shape human bodies, ecosystems, and the planet as a whole. Our work delivers essential insights into urgent global issues, spanning from human health to environmental sustainability. 

Your future tasks:

Active engagement in research, teaching, and administrative responsibilities, including: 

• You develop an independent research profile in the fields of trace element analytics and speciation. 
• You contribute to research projects and scientific studies on the environmental cycling of nano- and microparticles. 
• You publish your findings in international journals and deliver academic lectures. 
• You apply for research funding and secure third-party financial support. 
• You prepare and complete a habilitation that is ready for publication. 
• You independently teach courses in accordance with the collective bargaining agreement. 
• You supervise students within the Department of Environmental Geosciences (EDGE). 
• You participate in evaluation procedures and contribute to quality assurance. 
• You take on administrative duties related to research, teaching, and departmental operations. 

This is part of your personality: 

• Completed doctoral/PhD studies in Environmental Analytical Chemistry 
• An outstanding dissertation 
• Demonstrated research competence and initiative, evidenced by international publications in peer-reviewed journals 
• Excellent command of English (C1 level or higher) 
• Experience with LC-ICP-MS/MS and spICP-TOFMS for trace element analysis in environmental matrices 
• Proficiency in sample preparation and preconcentration methods, including solid phase extraction and probe sonication and working with complex environmental matrices 
• Experience in particle collection and characterization including field sampling, organic matter composition and isotope signatures 
• Familiarity with mass spectrometry data sets, including multivariate statistics and data clustering 
• Experience in research management and leading project staff 
• IT skills, including programming (preferably Python) for data analysis and visualization 
• Didactic skills and experience with e-learning platforms 

What we offer:

Work-life balance: Our employees enjoy flexible working hours (upon agreement). 

lnspiring working atmosphere: You are a part of an international academic team in a healthy and fair working environment. 

Good public transport connections: Your workplace in the center of beautiful Vienna is easily accessible by public transport. 

Internal further training & coaching: Opportunity to deepen your skills on an ongoing basis. There are over 600 courses to choose from - free of charge. 

Fixed-term contract and fair salary: The basic salary of EUR 4.932,90 (14 times a year) increases if we can credit professional experience. You have a fixed-term contract for three years. 

Equal opportunities for all: We welcome every additional/new personality to the team! 

It is that easy to apply:

Please submit the following documents via our job portal / Apply now – button: 

• your scientific curriculum vitae 
• your list of publications 
• a summary of your research interests (max. 1 p.) 
• your Doctoral Degree 
• contact details of persons who could provide reference letters 

If you have any questions, please contact:

Stella Maria Spanlang 

stella.maria.spanlang@univie.ac.at

We look forward to new personalities in our team! 
The University of Vienna has an anti-discriminatory employment policy and attaches great importance to equal opportunities, the advancement of women and diversity. We lay special emphasis on increasing the number of women in senior and in academic positions among the academic and general university staff and therefore expressly encourage qualified women to apply. Given equal qualifications, preference will be given to female candidates.

University of Vienna. Space for personalities. Since 1365.

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​Application deadline: 08/15/2025