At the University of Vienna, over 10,000 people work together on the big questions of the future. Approximately 7,500 of them are academic staff members. These are individuals who, with their curiosity and their continuous pursuit of excellence, engage in international cutting-edge research and teaching. With us, you will also find space to unfold your potential. We are looking for a/an 

University Assistant postdoctoral at the Department of Environmental Geosciences (EDGE) 

91 Centre for Microbiology and Environmental Systems Science  

Job vacancy starting: 11/01/2025 | Working hours:  40,00  | Classification CBA: §48 VwGr. B1 lit. b (postdoc) 

Limited contract until: 10/31/2029

Job ID: 4765

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:

The Department of Environmental Geosciences (EDGE), which is part of the Centre for Microbiology and Environmental System Science (CeMESS), is looking for a highly motivated member to join its international team. We offer an interdisciplinary scientific environment, cutting-edge laboratories, and a creative working atmosphere.

Our research group has extensive expertise in biogeochemical processes at mineral surfaces. We are particularly interested in understanding the preservation of DNA in the environment and the enzymatic processes determining the fate of organic substance in soils and sediments. The understanding, elucidation, and kinetic description of these processes require a solid foundation in geochemistry, biogeochemistry (including enzyme chemistry), coordination chemistry, as well as the surface chemistry of minerals.

Your future tasks:

We expect the successful candidate to sign a doctoral thesis agreement within 12-18 months within the Doctoral School in Microbiology and Environmental Science and to participate in research, teaching, and administration throughout the employment. Your tasks will include the following:

• development and implementation of research ideas together with the head of the research group
• funding acquisition at the national and international level
• publication and presentation of research in international top journals and conferences
• development of a teaching portfolio including team teaching and/or independent teaching as defined by the collective agreement
• mentoring and supervision of students.

This is part of your personality: 

• PhD / Doctorate in Environmental Sciences or closely related fields
• M.Sc. degree in Earth Sciences or closely related field
• proven ability to publish in top-tier international journals and conferences
• advanced knowledge in mineral surface chemistry and enzyme chemistry
• specific knowledge on the behaviour of environmental DNA/RNA or ancient DNA in the environment
• experience in mineral characterization
• some teaching experience is required
• excellent command of written and spoken English (level C1 recommended)
• willingness to contribute to research management and growing our scientific community, e.g., co-organizing conferences
• strong interest and enthusiasm for mentoring, and supporting student learning
• excellent team skills and ability to work in highly interdisciplinary and intercultural teams
• curious, independent, proactive, and motivated personality 

What we offer:

Work-life balance: Our employees enjoy flexible, family-friendly working hours, as well as the opportunity for remote/hybrid work (upon agreement).
Inspiring 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 centre 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.
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 4 years.
Equal opportunities for everyone: We look forward to diverse personalities in the team!

It is that easy to apply:

Application documents should include the following:

• letter of motivation
• academic curriculum vitae (including list of publications, list of courses taught and of conference presentations given)
• description of research interests and a research agenda
• contact details of people who could provide a letter of reference
• PhD/doctoral degree or expected date of graduation

Please apply directly via the University Jobcenter ("Apply now"-button)!

If you have any questions, please contact:

Stella Maria Spanlang  

environment@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 place particular emphasis on enhancing women’s representation among the academic and general university staff, particularly in leadership roles, 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: 10/26/2025