PhD Candidate in Neuroscience and Developmental Biology (Drosophila Brain Networks) University of Vienna in Austria

The University of Vienna invites applications for a PhD candidate position in the Faculty of Life Sciences, specifically within the Department of Neuroscience and Developmental Biology. This opportunity is part of the research group led by Univ.-Prof. Dr. Thomas Hummel, focusing on the analysis of neuronal networks in the Drosophila brain. The Hummel team comprises postdocs, pre-docs, master students, and administrative staff, all united by a shared interest in nervous system function.

The successful candidate will join the Vienna Doctoral School in Cognition, Behaviour and Neuroscience (VDS CoBeNe), which emphasizes quality assurance in PhD training and fosters interdisciplinary knowledge exchange. The position offers a dynamic research environment, with tasks including planning and executing empirical studies, publishing in international journals, presenting at conferences, and participating in the acquisition of new research projects. Additional responsibilities involve group administration, teaching activities, and organizing academic events.

Research will center on the analysis of neuronal networks in the Drosophila brain, with opportunities to collaborate with international experts in trauma and traumatic sequelae. The role also includes working on your dissertation and engaging in teaching, both independently and in teams, as defined by the collective agreement.

Applicants must hold a completed Master's or Diploma degree in biology and demonstrate experience in scientific writing and molecular-genetic research methods. Essential skills include didactic abilities, e-learning experience, strong IT proficiency (MS Office, Photoshop), high-resolution confocal imaging, basic programming, and excellent knowledge of Drosophila genetics. Candidates should be able to explain research methodology and present findings clearly, work independently and collaboratively, and possess flexibility, willingness to learn and travel, and excellent English language skills. Knowledge of academic processes and teaching experience for Master's students are considered assets.

The University of Vienna offers a supportive work-life balance with flexible, family-friendly hours and remote/hybrid options upon agreement. Employees benefit from an inspiring international academic team, excellent public transport connections, and access to over 600 free internal training and coaching courses. The position provides a fair salary: EUR 3,776.10 (full-time, paid 14 times a year), with increases for credited professional experience. The contract duration is four years, initially limited to 1.5 years and automatically extended unless terminated within the first 12 months. Job grading follows the collective bargaining agreement: §48 VwGr. B1 Grundstufe (praedoc).

The University of Vienna is committed to equal opportunities, diversity, and the advancement of women, encouraging qualified female candidates to apply. Preference is given to women in case of equal qualifications. The application deadline is February 7, 2026.

To apply, submit your scientific CV, letter of intent, a summary of your research interests or dissertation concept (max. 2 pages), and degree certificates via the University of Vienna job portal. For inquiries, contact Univ.-Prof. Dr. Thomas Hummel at [email protected].