University Assistant (Predoctoral) in Experimental Aerosol Physics
Join the Aerosol Physics and Environmental Physics Group to study understudied aerosol components in urban and remote environments.
Best for:Best for motivated candidates with a strong background in physics, atmospheric sciences, or related fields, who have hands-on experience in experimental work and programming (e.g., Python).
Overview
This predoctoral position at the University of Vienna offers a 4-year opportunity to conduct cutting-edge research in aerosol physics within the Aerosol Physics and Environmental Physics (AEP) Group. Led by Professor Bernadett Weinzierl, the role focuses on characterizing atmospheric aerosols at the University of Vienna’s Aerosol Observatory and the Sonnblick Observatory in Austria. The work involves hands-on experimental work, data analysis, and collaboration with national and international partners. Applicants will contribute to research projects, participate in teaching, and develop their dissertation under supervision. The position is part of the Vienna Network for Atmospheric Research (VINAR) and aligns with the ACTRIS research infrastructure.
What you'll do
- Conduct experimental research on atmospheric aerosols, focusing on optical and microphysical properties at urban and remote sites (Vienna Aerosol Observatory and Sonnblick Observatory).
- Set up, characterize, maintain, and operate ACTRIS instrumentation (e.g., Aethalometer, Nephelometer, Aerodynamic Particle Sizer) for aerosol measurements.
- Perform laboratory and field measurements, analyze and interpret aerosol data, and compare results from urban and remote environments.
- Collaborate with colleagues at GeoSphere Austria and the Department of Meteorology and Geophysics on modelling and data interpretation.
- Develop and complete a PhD dissertation, including presenting a research plan to the faculty and annual progress reviews.
- Contribute to teaching by assisting in lab courses and exercise classes as per collective bargaining agreement.
- Participate in administrative tasks to support the group’s research, teaching, and administrative activities.
- Engage in outreach through publications, conference presentations, and public activities.
Requirements
Degree required: Master's degree (or equivalent) in physics, atmospheric sciences, aerosol chemistry, meteorology, or a related field. Exceptionally, a Bachelor’s degree with Honors may be considered.
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; C1 or higher proficiency
Instruction: English
- Experience in experimental or technical work, particularly in aerosol-related fields.
- Strong command of written and spoken English (C1 level or higher).
- Programming skills (e.g., Python) for data analysis.
- Reliable presence in the laboratory for on-site work in Vienna.
- Willingness to travel for fieldwork, including national and international stays.
- Class B driving license.
- Ability to work collaboratively in a team.
- No specific nationality or residency restrictions mentioned.
- No age limits or prior experience caps explicitly stated.
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-10-24
Applicants must submit a scientific CV, a summary of academic and research achievements, a short statement on future research interests, and their Bachelor’s and Master’s degree certificates. An excellent academic degree is preferred, though exceptional cases with a Bachelor’s degree may be considered.
- CV
- Summary of previous academic and research achievements
- Short statement on research interests for the future
- Bachelor’s and Master’s degree certificates
Contact
Bernadett Weinzierl· Professor
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