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 sharing a keen interest in understanding 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 and transdisciplinary knowledge exchange. The position offers a dynamic and international academic environment, with opportunities for collaboration with experts in trauma and traumatic sequelae research.

Key responsibilities include planning and executing empirical studies, publishing research results in international journals, presenting findings at conferences, participating in new research project acquisition, and contributing to group administration and teaching activities. The candidate will conduct research related to neuronal network analysis in Drosophila, work towards completing their dissertation, and engage in teaching as defined by the collective agreement. Additional duties involve organizing meetings, conferences, and symposiums, and collaborating with international experts.

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. The ability to explain research methodology, present findings clearly, work independently and in teams, flexibility, willingness to learn and travel, and excellent English proficiency are required. Knowledge of academic processes and teaching experience for Master's students are advantageous.

The University of Vienna offers flexible, family-friendly working hours, remote/hybrid options (upon agreement), a supportive and inspiring work atmosphere, and excellent public transport connections. Employees have access to over 600 free internal training and coaching courses. The position provides a fair salary, with a basic rate of EUR 3,776.10 (full-time, paid 14 times a year), which may increase with credited professional experience. The contract duration is four years, initially limited to 1.5 years, with automatic extension unless terminated within the first 12 months.

The University is committed to equal opportunities, diversity, and the advancement of women, encouraging qualified female candidates to apply. Preference is given to women in cases of equal qualification. The application deadline is July 2, 2026.

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