University Assistant with Doctorate (Postdoctoral Researcher) in Political Anthropology and European Ethnology University of Graz in Austria

The University of Graz invites applications for a postdoctoral position as University Assistant with Doctorate (m/f/d) in the Department of Cultural Anthropology and European Ethnology. This six-year, fixed-term role offers an annual gross salary of at least €70,200.20, with the possibility of overpayment based on qualifications and experience. The position is designed for candidates with a strong research background in Political Anthropology, Cultural Anthropology, European Ethnology, or Empirical Cultural Studies, and a demonstrated ability to conduct ethnographic research on political contestations over migration, welfare, labour, unemployment, housing, family, gender, sexuality, and democracy, with a focus on Europe and preferably Austria from a global perspective.

Responsibilities include advancing the research profile of Political Anthropology, participating in applications for externally funded projects, independent publication activity, active participation in conferences, teaching courses (including research-based seminars at the MA level), conducting examinations, supervising Bachelor’s and Master’s students, and contributing to university self-administration, institute administration, and public relations. The role also offers opportunities for interdisciplinary and cross-professional collaboration, as well as access to internal continuing education programs and a diverse, inclusive working environment.

Applicants must possess an excellent PhD in a relevant field, a research focus in Political Anthropology, experience in ethnographic research, successful publication activity, teaching experience, communication and teamwork skills, conceptual work ability, and excellent German and English skills (written and spoken). Desirable qualifications include experience in writing applications for funded projects, project management, editing publications, and organizing conferences. Application documents required are a letter of motivation, dissertation (PDF or link), one further academic publication or presentation (PDF or link), a sketch of planned research activity for the first two years (max. 2 A4 pages), syllabus of a taught or proposed course, academic CV, and all relevant certificates and employment references.

The University of Graz is committed to diversity and inclusion, offering flexibility in working time models and support for the compatibility of family and career. The institution encourages applications from qualified women and persons with disabilities. Applications must be submitted via the university’s web-based applicant tool by the deadline of June 10, 2026. For further information, contact Univ.-Prof. Dr. Lisa Riedner ([email protected]) or Claudia Baumgartner ([email protected]).

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