University Assistant postdoctoral

The Department of Geography and Regional Research is the oldest and largest geographical institute in Austria. It is home to more than 90 researchers in 9 working groups and 3,600 students. Geographical research and teaching at the Institute encompasses both social and naturalsciences. This interdisciplinary basis provides a dynamic and inspiring environment for researchers working on the major societal challenges of our time.

Your personal sphere of play:

The position is part of the research group Population | Environment | Development, which aims to conduct theoretically grounded and empirically informed research at the intersection of population dynamics, environmental change, and resilient development. We are seeking an outstanding and enthusiastic scientist who will advance the field of environmental and climate mobilities both theoretically and methodologically and actively contribute to the research group.

Planned start of employment February 2025, in coordination with applicant.

Your future tasks:

• Develop a distinct profile within the field of environmental and climate mobilities, establish yourself as an expert and build a foundation for a long-term academic career.
• Actively collaborate in ongoing research, networking, teaching and dissemination activities within the working group (e.g., ECMN Network, Knowledge Hub).
• Engage in international publishing and present research findings at academic conferences to enhance visibility and impact within the field.
• Independently acquire third-party funding (e.g., ERC, FWF) to support ambitious research projects
• Conduct independent and collaborative empirical research in the field of environmental and climate mobilities, driving innovative contributions to the field.
• Supervise students on BA, MA and PhD level and independently teach courses as outlined in the collective agreement, mentoring the next generation of researchers and leaders in environmental and climate mobilities studies.
• Play an active role in university academic self-administration, contributing to strategic decisions and ensuring smooth operations.
• Be part of an international and diverse research team committed to advancing socially impactful research  in environmental and climate mobilities.

This is part of your personality: 

• PhD or Doctoral degree in Geography or a relevant related discipline within the field of environmental and climate mobilities.
• Demonstrated theoretical and methodological expertise, with research experience in environmental and climate mobilities or related fields, and a solid publication record in international journals.
• Experience or demonstrated potential in the acquisition of third-party funding for research projects (e.g., ERC, FWF), with a strategic approach to funding acquisition.
• Experience in conducting independent and collaborative empirical research, preferably including fieldwork in the Global South.
• Proficiency in academic networking and in collaboration, with active engagement in relevant research networks.
• Strong teaching skills and experience in student supervision, with a commitment to mentoring and fostering the development of future researchers.
• Ability to present research at international conferences, highlighting both individual and institutional contributions.
• Experience or interest in academic administration and strategic decision-making within a university setting.
• Commitment to working in a diverse, international research environment and contribution to socially relevant scientific advancements in environmental and climate mobilities.
• Excellent communication skills in both academic and collaborative team contexts.
• Proficiency in English is required; knowledge of German is considered an asset.

What we offer:

Work-life balance: You enjoy flexible working hours and - upon agreement - can partly work from home (possibly also part-time 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 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 4,752,30 (14 times a year) for a period of 6 years increases if we can credit professional experience.

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

It is that easy to apply:

• With your scientific curriculum vitae / letter of intent
• With your list of publications
• With a summary of your research interests (max. 1 p.)
• Contact details of persons who could provide reference letters
• PhD / Doctoral Degree 
• Via our job portal/ Apply now -  button