University Assistant (postdoc) - Department of Government

The University of Vienna is a community of almost 11,000 individuals, including approximately 7,700 academic staff members, who passionately pursue answers to the profound questions that shape our future. Fueled by curiosity and a deep sense of duty, they contribute invaluable insights to research and teaching, enriching our society. Are you inspired and driven by the desire to make a meaningful impact? We are currently seeking a/an

49 Faculty of Social Sciences  

Job vacancy starting: 01.08.2026 | Working hours:  40.00  | Classification CBA: §48 VwGr. B1 lit. b (postdoc) 

Limited contract until: 31.07.2032

Job ID: 5517

Among the many reasons to research and teach at the University of Vienna there is one in particular, which has convinced around 7,500 academic staff members so far. They see themselves as personalities who need space for continuous striving for top international research and scientific excellence. At the same time they enjoy support and liberties that are not a given at other institutions. Does that sound like something for you? Welcome to our team!

The Department of Government, a subunit of the Faculty of Social Sciences, is looking for a university assistant (post doc) in research areas represented at the Department of Government, especially political representation, party competition, political institutions, or poltical behaviour.

Your future position is based at the Department of Government, which is a leading centre for research on the comparative politics in Europe and beyond. The position is to be filled from 1 August 2026 or 1 September 2026 and is limited to six years. Staff and students appreciate internationality, outstanding research projects, interdisciplinary cooperation and exchange between colleagues.

• You will develop and strengthen an independent research profile, including internationally visible publications
• You will present your work internationally
• You will hold courses independently as defined by the university's collective bargaining agreement (typically 180 minutes of classroom teaching per week each academic semester)
• You will supervise students (BA and MA)
• You will carry out administrative activities, quality assurance and evaluation activities

• Completed doctorate/PhD in Political Science or a closely related social science discipline by the start date of the position
• Own research agenda on political representation, party competition, political institutions, political economy, political behaviour or related fields that complements research at the department
• Excellent knowledge of social science methods in data collection and analysis
• Internationally visible publication record or advanced manuscripts (e.g., revise & resubmit)
• Excellent command of written and spoken English
• Ability to work in a team

Work-life balance: We are a family-friendly employer. Our employees enjoy flexible working hours and the opportunity to partially work remotely (in Austria)

Inspiring working atmosphere: You are a part of an international academic team in a healthy and fair working environment

Good public transport connections: Your workplace in the center of beautiful Vienna is easily accessible by public transport

Fixed-term contract and fair salary:  A current base salary of EUR 5.014,30  (14 times a year). The salary increases if we can credit professional experience

Research support: The department aims to provide support for conference travel and fair access to the common pool of research assistants

• Academic curriculum vitae (including a list of publications, a list of cources taught and a list of talks given)
• Letter of motivation, including a description of key achievements and future research plans (max. 2 pages)
• Contact details of three academic referees
• Via our  job portal/ Apply now -  button

Reto Bürgisser  

reto.buergisser@univie.ac.at

We look forward to new personalities in our team! 
The University of Vienna has an anti-discriminatory employment policy and attaches great importance to equal opportunities, the advancement of women and diversity. We place particular emphasis on enhancing women’s representation among the academic and general university staff, particularly in leadership roles, and therefore expressly encourage qualified women to apply. Given equal qualifications, preference will be given to female candidates.

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​Application deadline: 29 April 2026