PhD Student in Digital Molecular Medicine – Computational Bioinformatics and Precision Medicine Interdisciplinary Transformation University (IT:U) in Austria

Interdisciplinary Transformation University (IT:U), Austria’s first public interdisciplinary university dedicated to digital transformation, invites applications for three PhD positions in Digital Molecular Medicine within the IT:U Doctoral School PhD Program. The positions are based in Linz, Austria, and will start in October 2026 under the supervision of Professor Kristin Reiche. The research group focuses on advancing precision medicine by integrating biomedical data science, medical bioinformatics, software engineering, and advanced molecular diagnostic tools.

Research topics include machine learning for single-cell multi-omics and spatial cell biology, patient-individual in silico models for risk and pathogenesis prediction, molecular biomarker discovery and validation, and software engineering for medical bioinformatics. The group is particularly interested in innovative digital solutions for advanced medical therapies such as adoptive cellular immunotherapies, aiming to improve personalized treatment strategies.

PhD students will participate in the EU-funded CERTAINTY project, which develops a cellular immunotherapy virtual twin for personalized cancer treatment, and collaborate with clinical partners in immuno-oncology and oncology. The lab maintains close collaborations with national and international research institutions, supports co-supervision with other IT:U founding professors, and offers opportunities for international mobility and exchange, including research stays at partner institutions in Europe and North America.

The program provides a structured 4-year curriculum, with the first year focused on group work, research lab modules, and Project Integrated Courses (PICS), culminating in a PhD Proposal Presentation. Subsequent years involve thesis development, interdisciplinary seminars, and project assistant work, concluding with thesis submission and defense. Students will benefit from an innovative, interdisciplinary research environment, professional development opportunities, and direct clinical impact through translational research.

Applicants must hold a Master’s degree (or equivalent) in computer science, bioinformatics, computational biological sciences, mathematics, physics, or related fields. Essential skills include machine learning, biomedical data science, programming in Python and/or R, familiarity with ML frameworks, Unix/Linux environments, Git version control, and knowledge of genetics, molecular biology, and immunology. Fluency in English (CEFR C1) is required. Preferred qualifications include experience in bioinformatics, computational biology, single-cell multi-omics, spatial transcriptomics, and deep learning frameworks.

Funding includes a gross salary of EUR 2,832.10 per month (30h/week) in line with the FWF, optional supplementary contracts for teaching or research, complimentary office kitchen supplies, and the Austrian 'KlimaTicket OÖ' for unlimited public transport within Upper Austria. The positions are part-time and offer stimulating working conditions in a diverse and inclusive team.

To apply, submit the online application form with your CV, diplomas, transcripts, motivational letter, and up to three contacts for recommendations. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and candidates are encouraged to apply early. The call closes on 30 April 2026. For further information, contact Bettina Mairhofer, Teamlead for Student Administration, at [email protected].