The Spatial Data Science & GeoCommunication Group at the University of Vienna is recruiting for two open positions: a University Assistant (Predoctoral/PhD) and a University Assistant (Postdoctoral). The group is building a centralized spatial competence hub to support FAIR geodata practices and advance geospatial research, data services, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Research areas include GeoAI, geosemantics, knowledge graphs, geovisualization, and social sensing. The PhD position involves contributing to the creation of a Geo-Help-Desk/GeoCommunication Hub, developing infrastructure, tools, and visualization services for spatial data. The postdoc position focuses on leading and shaping research in spatial data science, GeoAI, and related fields, with responsibilities in mentoring, teaching, and seeking external funding. Applicants for the PhD role should have a Master’s degree in a relevant field, programming skills, and strong communication abilities. Postdoc applicants need a PhD, a strong publication record, and experience in spatial methods and interdisciplinary research. Both roles require excellent English; German is a plus. Applications are submitted via the University of Vienna jobs portal. For questions, contact Prof. Dr. Krzysztof Janowicz. The positions offer university employment with salary and benefits according to university standards. The group offers a collaborative, international environment and encourages candidates passionate about spatial data and geospatial infrastructure to apply.

The University of Vienna's Department of Geography and Regional Research is seeking a highly motivated PhD student to join the new research project STRENGTH: Strengthening Resilience and Preparedness to Prevent and React to Emerging Socio-Natural Hazards and Risks . This position offers the opportunity to work at the intersection of Spatial Data Science , GeoAI , and disaster risk assessment within an international research team. The project focuses on applying advanced computational and spatial analysis methods to understand and mitigate the impacts of socio-natural hazards, contributing to the field of disaster forensic research. The Department of Geography and Regional Research at the University of Vienna is renowned for its commitment to innovative, interdisciplinary research and teaching. The department covers a wide range of topics, including population geography, geoecology, cartography, urban studies, digital geography, geohazards, and spatial planning. The research environment is inclusive and collegial, supporting the development of critical and responsible scholars equipped to address global challenges. Applicants should have a strong interest in spatial data science and GeoAI, and be eager to contribute to disaster risk assessment research. The position is open to candidates eligible for PhD (PraeDoc) studies. While specific degree or language requirements are not detailed, a background in geography, environmental science, computer science, or related fields is likely advantageous. The application deadline is 16 February 2026 . For further information and to apply, candidates should visit the provided application link. Questions can be directed to Prof. Krzysztof Janowicz at the University of Vienna. The department encourages wide sharing of this opportunity among interested candidates.

The University of Vienna is launching the STRENGTH research platform, focusing on strengthening resilience and preparedness to prevent and react to emerging socio-natural hazards and risks. This initiative, aligned with the EU Preparedness Union Strategy, addresses the increasing challenges posed by climate change and rapidly changing environmental and societal systems. Communities and decision-makers often face new hazards and risks for which they are unprepared, making this research both timely and impactful. STRENGTH is led by a team of distinguished academics, including Prof. Thomas Glade, Prof. Sabine Pahl, Prof. Alexandra Brausmann, Prof. Krzysztof Janowicz, Dr. Renata Pacheco Quevedo, Dr. Philipp Marr, Dr. Ivan Majic, Dr. Nina Vaupotic, and Prof. Ugur Ozturk. The platform will fund four fully funded PhD positions in the following areas: PhD 1: Geomorphology & Hydrometeorology – EO-based assessment of emerging interconnected multi-hazard risks under climate change (Supervisors: Prof. Glade / Prof. Janowicz) PhD 2: Geoinformation / Data Science – AI methods for hazard and risk assessment to support decision-making (Supervisors: Prof. Janowicz / Prof. Pahl) PhD 3: Environmental Psychology – Socio-economic dynamics in disaster preparedness and response (Supervisors: Prof. Pahl / Prof. Brausmann) PhD 4: Environmental Economics – Disaster-mitigation policies and welfare impacts (Supervisors: Prof. Brausmann / Prof. Glade) Applicants should have a relevant master's degree, strong academic performance, and skills related to the specific research area. Proficiency in English is required. The positions are fully funded, with details available in the individual job posts. Application deadlines vary by position (late February to early March). Candidates must apply via the official application links; applications via email or messaging will not be considered. For further information, contact the lead supervisor listed in the job post. Research areas include socio-natural hazards, climate change, risk assessment, disaster preparedness, geoinformation, data science, environmental psychology, and economics. The University of Vienna offers a vibrant academic environment and the opportunity to contribute to impactful research addressing global challenges.