Postdoctoral Researcher in Migration Studies (ERC Co-coordination) University for Continuing Education Krems in Austria

The University for Continuing Education Krems, located in Austria's Wachau World Heritage region, is renowned for its expertise in academic continuing education and research addressing societal challenges. The Department of Migration and Globalization is offering a full-time, five-year postdoctoral position as part of the ERC-funded project 'Ethics in Action: Navigating Ethical Dilemmas of Migrant Solidarity,' led by Professor Julia Mourão Permoser. The project investigates how policymakers and civil society actors navigate ethical dilemmas in solidarity with irregular and precarious migrants, developing a novel actor-centred framework that bridges political theory and empirical research.

The successful candidate will act as a coordinating postdoctoral researcher, working closely with the PI on both intellectual and organizational leadership. Responsibilities include co-supervising early career researchers, advancing the project's research design and theoretical framework, and co-leading three central work packages: Overall Comparison and Theory Development, Visual Methods and Artistic Dissemination, and Stakeholder and Society Dialogue. The role also involves integrating comparative empirical insights into a coherent analytical framework, developing an independent research agenda, and contributing actively to departmental life.

This opportunity allows the candidate to design and pursue their own research agenda within a major ERC project, contribute to innovative theory-building at the intersection of empirical research and political theory, and collaborate within an ambitious, international, and interdisciplinary team. The position offers high-level experience in project coordination, publishing, academic leadership, and preparation for a future professorship.

Applicants must have a completed PhD in a social science discipline (by 15 October 2026), research experience in migration studies, an excellent international publication record, familiarity with migration policy ethics, experience in research projects, expertise in qualitative methods, comparative research designs, theory development, analytical and writing skills, willingness to relocate to Krems, and excellent English skills (min. C1). Desirable qualifications include grant writing, project management, ethical research standards, artistic or visual methods, participatory methodologies, and stakeholder engagement.

The position is classified as scientific project staff, with a minimum salary of EUR 5,014.30 gross per month (14x), support for fieldwork, publications, and networking, flexible working hours, and the option to work from home two days a week. The university offers a vibrant, collaborative research environment, comprehensive training and coaching, support services for work-life balance, and workplace health promotion programs.

Applications are invited from candidates who meet the required profile, including those with disabilities or chronic illnesses. The deadline for online applications is 27 August 2026. Required documents include a cover letter, CV, research outline, degrees and transcripts, writing samples, and references. For further details, consult the project proposal and apply via the university's online tool.