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!

Your personal sphere of influence:

The working group Environmental Geophysics led by Dr. Chi Zhang invites applications for a fully funded University Assistant Praedoc position focused on understanding peatland ecohydrology through multi-scale geophysical monitoring. Co-supervisor will be Prof. Dr. Stephan Glatzel who is leading the Geoecology working group. Peatlands are globally important carbon sinks and climate regulators, yet their subsurface hydrological dynamics remain poorly resolved. This interdisciplinary project investigates how peat pore structure influences water dynamics and greenhouse gas (GHG) fluxes using state-of-the-art geophysical methods (e.g., geoelectrical methods and nuclear magnetic resonance techniques) and biogeochemical measurements. This project will capture pore- to field-scale water and structure dynamics in natural peatland systems.

Our interdisciplinary supervision team bridges geophysics and ecohydrology, offering strong mentorship and access to both lab and field facilities. You benefit from your doctoral student membership at the Vienna International School of Earth and Space Sciences (VISESS).

Your future tasks:

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

• You are involved in research projects and scientific studies in the field(s) of geophysics, soil physics and modeling, geoecology, and geochemistry.
• You conduct field and laboratory experiments, as well as numerical modeling related to peatland hydrology, geophysics, and greenhouse gas flux monitoring. You present research at international conferences and publish findings in high-impact journals.
• We expect you to conclude a doctoral thesis agreement within 12 months.
• You work on your dissertation and its completion.
• You hold courses and examinations independently and (co-)supervise students within the scope of the provisions of the collective bargaining agreement.
• You take on administrative tasks in research and teaching. 
• You become an active team member of the working group Environmental Geophysics and Geoecology.
• You become an active doctoral student member of the "Vienna International School of Earth and Space Sciences".

This is part of your personality:

We seek a motivated candidate with a background in geophysics, hydrology, environmental science, or a related field. Experience or strong interest in experimental and numerical geophysical methods and quantitative data analysis is especially welcome. The successful candidate will require:

• Completed Master's Degree (or equivalent) in geophysics, environmental science, hydrology, geoecology, or related fields
• Experience and knowledge in laboratory measurements, data processing, and numerical modeling tools
• Knowledge in geophysics, fluid flow modeling, peatland ecosystems, soil physics, and biogeochemical cycles
• Strong English communication skills
• A good team spirit and willingness to collaborate

Proficiency in German is not required, but knowledge of German would be beneficial for daily life in Vienna.

What we offer:

Location: Vienna, Austria: Vienna is renowned for its exceptional quality of life. It was often named the world's most liveable city, excelling in stability, healthcare, culture, environment, education, and infrastructure. The city offers a rich cultural scene, extensive green spaces, and a high standard of living, making it an ideal place to live and study.

Work-life balance: You have flexible working hours and the option to partly work from home (from an Austrian domicile) upon agreement.

Inspiring and supportive working atmosphere: You will join the Department of Meteorology and Geophysics, where you will be part of an international team in a healthy and fair working environment with excellent research infrastructure. You will not perform your work in isolation but collaborate with a strong research team. 

Fair salary: The basic salary of EUR 2,786.10 (14 times/year, amount for 2025) increases if we can credit professional experience.

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

The intended start date is fall 2025. The employment duration is 3 years. Initially limited to 1.5 years, the employment relationship is automatically extended to 3 years if the employer does not terminate it within the first 12 months by submitting a non-extension declaration. 

It is that easy to apply:

• With a short letter stating your interest in the position; this could include a description of the topics that you would consider most interesting for your doctoral thesis;
• With your CV including a list of publications;
• With contact details of two people who could provide a recommendation upon request;
• Via our job portal / Apply now -  button.