University Assistant Postdoctoral, Philological and Cultural Studies

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

University Assistant postdoctoral

45 Faculty of Philological and Cultural Studies
Startdate: 01.11.2026 | Working hours: 40 | Collective bargaining agreement: §48 VwGr. B1 lit. b (postdoc)
Limited until: 31.10.2032
Reference no.: 6365

Explore and teach at the University of Vienna, where over 7,500 brilliant minds have found a unique balance of freedom and support. Join us if you’re passionate about groundbreaking international research and academic excellence. Ready to be part of our team? Let’s shape the future together! We would be happy to welcome you in our team until 31.10.2032.

Your personal sphere of play:

Your future position will be at the Institute for European and Comparative Linguistics and Literature, in the Department of Comparative Literature. This department is distinguished by its excellent research in the fields of memory studies, world literature, ecological research in literary and cultural studies, as well as intermedial and interdisciplinary narrative studies.

The Department of Comparative Literature supervises approximately one thousand students and is actively engaged in research, teaching, and the communication of scholarship through European and international exchange. It operates at the intersection of languages and literary forms and examines the role of literature and poetic forms —even beyond the arts in the narrower sense—for the present, the past, and the future.

Your future tasks:

You will actively participate in research, teaching, and administration, which means:

• Development of an independent research profile in the field of comparative cultural studies, with a focus on the environmental humanities or the field of literature and knowledge.
• Contribution to research projects and scholarly studies in the fields of applied comparative studies, digital humanities, and literary theory.
• You will publish internationally and give presentations.
• Application for projects and secure external funding.
• Preparation and completion of a habilitation thesis ready for publication.
•  You will independently teach courses in accordance with the provisions of the collective bargaining agreement.
• Supervision of your students’ theses.
• Performance of administrative tasks related to research and teaching.
• Active involvment in building a scientific communication network for comparative literature projects.

This is part of your personality:

• Completed doctoral/PhD degree in General and Comparative Literature, Philology, or Cultural Studies
• Outstanding dissertation demonstrating proven expertise in literary studies or literary theory
• Research competence and initiative demonstrated through international publications in peer-reviewed journal
•  Experience in research management 
• Teaching skills / experience in e-learning
• IT skills (e.g., website development, database maintenance)

The following traits and skills would be a welcomed addition:

• Knowledge and experience in the field of science communication
• Experience living abroad
• Experience in advising students
• Excellent English skills (C1) / knowledge of at least one other foreign language
• Team player with strong social and communication skills

What we offer:

Work-Life Balance: You’ll have flexible working hours and can also work remote (by arrangement).

Inspiring Work Environment: You’ll be part of an international team with excellent research infrastructure in a relaxed work environment.

Good Public Transportation Access: Your new workplace is easily accessible by public transportation.

In-house training and coaching: We offer you ongoing opportunities to deepen your skills. Choose from a free selection of over 600 workshops per year.

Fixed-term contract and fair salary: The base salary of EUR 5,014.30 (paid 14 times a year, based on full-time employment) from November 1, 2026, to October 31, 2032, will increase if we can take your professional experience into account.

Equal opportunities for all: We welcome every new member to our team!

That's how easy it is to apply:

• Submit your academic resume / letter of intent
• Submit your list of publications
• Submit a summary of your main research areas (max. 1 page)
• Contact details of references
• Proof of completion of your doctoral/PhD program
• Via our job portal / “Apply Now” button

If you have any questions, please contact:

Solvejg Elisabeth Nitzke

solvejg.nitzke@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.

University of Vienna. Space for personalities. Since 1365.

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​Application deadline: 11/30/2026

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