PhD Position in Inorganic & Materials Chemistry – Field-Driven Framework Materials (Chin Research Group) University of Vienna in Austria

The University of Vienna invites applications for a PhD position in Inorganic & Materials Chemistry within the Chin Research Group at the Department of Functional Materials and Catalysis, Faculty of Chemistry. This opportunity is embedded in the Vienna Doctoral School in Chemistry (DoSChem), Austria’s largest graduate network in chemical sciences, offering world-class training, mentoring, and networking for over 200 doctoral students and 50 principal investigators.

The research project focuses on the development of advanced porous materials, specifically metal-organic frameworks (MOF) and covalent organic frameworks (COF), for applications in sensing, energy conversion, and catalysis. The PhD candidate will explore the control of growth, alignment, and assembly of these framework materials using external fields (electric, magnetic, or flow) to create structured, anisotropic, and multifunctional materials. By coupling field-driven orientation with compositional design, the project aims to understand how directional control over framework domains affects charge transport, optical response, and catalytic performance. Applications include enhanced electrochemical sensing, field-responsive coatings, and energy-harvesting architectures.

The candidate will employ advanced fabrication, microscopy, and spectroscopy techniques and collaborate within an interdisciplinary team spanning materials chemistry, surface science, and applied physics. The position offers a vibrant, international research environment and access to over 600 internal training courses, fostering both personal and professional development.

Key responsibilities include synthesizing and characterizing MOF/COF/HOF materials and composites, investigating field-assisted growth and assembly, fabricating structured films for sensing and energy applications, correlating orientation and functionality using microscopy and spectroscopy, contributing to publications and conferences, and participating in teaching and mentoring activities. The candidate will finalize their dissertation agreement within 12–18 months and work towards completion of their PhD.

Applicants must hold a Master’s degree in Chemistry, Materials Science, or a related discipline (grade of at least 2 in Austrian system or GPA ≥ 3.5/4), with a strong background in inorganic or materials chemistry. Experience in materials synthesis and characterization is essential; MOF/COF synthesis or colloidal assembly is advantageous. Basic handling of DNA or peptides is a plus. Evidence of scientific writing and publications, excellent communication and data presentation skills, and fluency in English are required. German language skills are appreciated but not mandatory. Candidates should be motivated, collaborative, and able to work independently. Contact information for two referees who have previously supervised the applicant is required.

The position is funded with a basic salary of EUR 3,776.10 (full-time basis), which may increase with credited professional experience. The contract duration is 3 years, with a preliminary limitation of 1.5 years and automatic extension unless a non-extension declaration is submitted after 12 months. An extension up to a total of 4 years is possible based on excellent performance. The University of Vienna offers a healthy, fair, and inspiring working atmosphere, good public transport connections, and equal opportunities for all, with particular emphasis on diversity and the advancement of women.

To apply, submit a single PDF in English via the job portal with a motivation letter, CV including relevant publications, copies of Bachelor and Master degree certificates (with credit transcripts), and contact information for two referees. Use Job-ID 5571. For questions, contact Dr Jia Min Chin at [email protected]. The application deadline is 25 May 2026.

Join the University of Vienna and contribute to cutting-edge research in materials chemistry within a dynamic and supportive academic community.