University assistant predoctoral Universität Wien

Job description:

The University of Vienna is a community of almost 11,000 individuals, including approximately 7,700 academic staff members, who passionately pursue answers to the profound questions that shape our future. They represent individuals driven by curiosity and a relentless pursuit of excellence. With us, they find the space to try things out and unfold their potential. Are you inspired by their passion and determination? We are currently seeking a/an

University assistant predoctoral

Explore and teach at the University of Vienna, where more than 7,500 academics thrive on curiosity in continuous exploration and help us better understand our world. Does this sound like you? Then join our accomplished team!

The Group Electronic Properties of Materials at the Faculty of Physics at the University of Vienna searches excellent candidates for the subgroup Low Dimensional Quantum Solids. The Group of Electronic Properties of Materials at the Faculty of Physics is a committed team of scientists with the main research focus on low dimensional quantum solids. We dedicate a great part of our research to the growth and spectroscopic analysis of pristine and doped carbon-based molecular structures to unravel their underlying electron transport and optical properties. We aim at understanding which parameters control their unique properties to subsequently engineer them to access their full application potential.

Your personal sphere of influence:

You will be part of MATE, a multidisciplinary research platform of the University of Vienna that unites expertise across synthetic chemistry, materials physics, quantum technologies, and nanomaterial functionalization to develop next-generation functional nanomaterials with tailored quantum, electronic and magnetic properties.

Your job will be focused on establishing a route for 2.5 D materials design using a customized optimization loop embracing a spectroscopic quest that allows challenging to-date tangible limits of materials science accessing their application potential in optoelectronics. For emerging low-dimensional (D) materials controlling the function at an atomistic scale is the key for their application in optoelectronics. Among them, 2.5 D materials (a combination of (twisted) layered heterostructures and nanotubes) exhibit outstanding properties and functionality by internal tailoring interfaces making them an extremely promising new materials platform. Such a tailoring of layered 2D materials by atomistic stacking in specific twist angle and combining them with 1D quantum wires in advanced hybrid structures offer unique possibilities. Especially, the control of basic correlation effects by the twist angle and doping of interfaces & the concomitant understanding of their influence on charge transfer & hybridization are crucial.

MATE offers a vibrant and intellectually stimulating research environment where curiosity and scientific excellence thrive. You'll be part of a dynamic, collaborative community of researchers who are passionate about pushing the boundaries of materials science. Our atmosphere balances ambitious research goals with mutual support and collegiality, fostering both independent thinking and teamwork. The 5 groups involved in MATE maintain an active research culture with regular seminars, group discussions, and knowledge exchange that keep you connected to the latest developments. We all value open communication, creative problem-solving, and a healthy work-life balance, creating an environment where you can grow both professionally and personally. International collaboration is at the heart of what we do, providing you with opportunities to build a global network while working alongside diverse, talented colleagues who share your enthusiasm for cutting-edge science.

Our group focuses strongly on the development of new techniques combining high spatial, energy & momentum (q)-resolution for nanospectroscopic analysis at all energy scales. This enables us to investigate dispersion and lifetime of primary excitations in nanomaterials such as TMDC-heterostructures and nanotubes. This facilitates the control on quantum phases, like charge-density waves and superconductivity, to engineer new materials for energy (e.g. batteries, (opto-)electronic devices in electrons).

Your future tasks:

You actively participate in research, teaching & administration, which means:

• You will present your research plan to the faculty and complete a dissertation agreement within 12-18 months. This will be reviewed and adapted on an annual basis.
• You will work on your dissertation and towards its completion in time. We expect a large degree of independence paired with a high level of social awareness as the goal will only be achieved in a team.
• You will contribute to teaching (lab courses, exercise classes) within the provisions of the collective bargaining agreement.
• You will fill some administrative tasks, contributing to the success and self-organization of the group for research, teaching and administration.
• You will continuously stay informed about the state of the art in your field.
• You will contribute to outreach by publications, conference presentations and public activities.
• You will advance your dissertation toward successful completion with dedicated mentorship.
• You will contribute to teaching activities, both in teams and independently.
• You will engage with the broader scientific community through conferences and collaborative events.

This is part of your personality:

• You must have a master's degree or diploma in physics, physical chemistry, materials science or a related field.
• You must have experience in Raman spectroscopy.
• You must have basic experience in academic writing.
• You must have initiative in solving scientific problems.
• You must have excellent command of written and spoken English.
• Basic use of German would be useful but is not compulsory.
• You are a team player.
• You have didactic competences and knowledge of teaching principles.

What we offer:

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

Potential for development: Success in life depends on what you make of it, but if you are ambitious and successful, there are plenty of opportunities to connect you to all relevant top research groups in the world.

Internal further training & coaching: The Vienna Doctoral School as well as the department of human resources offer plenty of opportunities to grow your skills in over 600 courses to choose from – free of charge.

Fair salary: The basic salary of EUR 3.776,10 (full-time basis, 14x p.a.) increases if we can credit professional experience. The employment duration is 4 years. Initially limited to 1.5 years, the employment relationship is automatically extended to 4 years if the employer does not terminate it within the first 12 months by submitting a non-extension declaration. Occupation group in accordance with collective bargaining agreement: §48 VwGr. B1 Grundstufe (praedoc). After three years of employment, the salary increases according to the collective bargaining agreement.

A PhD project: A project related to cutting-edge research in the fields of materials science and physical properties of new materials.

Work-life balance: Our employees enjoy flexible, family-friendly working hours.

A city with an outstanding life quality: Vienna has been chosen several times as the most livable city word-wide, with a rich culture, numerous recreational opportunities and beautiful nature surroundings.

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

Equal opportunities for everyone: We look forward to diverse personalities in the team!

It is that easy to apply:

• With your scientific curriculum vitae / letter of intent
• With your summary of research interests / ideas for a prospective doctoral project proposal
• Master Degree / Diploma
• Via our job portal/ "Apply now" button

If you have any questions, please contact:

Thomas Pichler  

thomas.pichler@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: 08/28/2026 

Apply now