PhD Student in Digital Molecular Medicine – Computational X Program Interdisciplinary Transformation University (IT:U) in Austria

Interdisciplinary Transformation University (IT:U) in Austria is offering three PhD positions in Digital Molecular Medicine as part of the Computational X program. IT:U is Austria’s first public interdisciplinary university dedicated to digital transformation for societal, economic, and environmental benefit. The positions are based in Linz and are supervised by Professor Kristin Reiche, whose research group focuses on advancing precision medicine by integrating biomedical data science, medical bioinformatics, software engineering, and advanced molecular diagnostic tools.

The research scope includes machine learning for single-cell multi-omics and spatial cell biology, patient-specific in silico models for risk and pathogenesis prediction, molecular biomarker discovery and validation, and software engineering for medical bioinformatics interoperability. 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 (www.certainty-virtualtwin.eu). Collaborations extend to clinical partners in immuno-oncology and oncology, as well as other IT:U founding professors. International mobility is encouraged, with opportunities for research stays at partner institutions in Europe and North America, access to international research networks, and participation in leading conferences.

The program offers a structured 4-year curriculum, starting with group work, lab modules, and Project Integrated Courses (PICS) in the first year, culminating in a PhD Proposal Presentation. Subsequent years focus on thesis development, interdisciplinary seminars, and project assistant work, ending with thesis submission and defense. Students contribute to academic teaching (up to 2 weekly credit hours) and support third-party funding applications.

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 and Git, understanding of genetics, molecular biology, and immunology, strong motivation, teamwork, independence, and English fluency (CEFR C1). Preferred qualifications are prior bioinformatics or computational biology experience, hands-on single-cell multi-omics or spatial transcriptomics data analysis, and familiarity with deep learning frameworks (PyTorch, TensorFlow).

Successful candidates will benefit from innovative working conditions in an interdisciplinary, international environment, complimentary office kitchen supplies, and the Austrian “KlimaTicket OÖ” for unlimited public transport in Upper Austria. The gross salary is EUR 2,832.10 per month (30h/week), with optional supplementary contracts for teaching or research up to 10 hours. Diversity and inclusion are actively promoted.

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 until the call closes on 30.04.2026. For questions, contact Bettina Mairhofer ([email protected]), Teamlead for Student Administration.