Doctoral Positions in Microbiology and Environmental Science
Join an international project investigating microbial nutrient cycling and soil health at the University of Vienna.
Best for:Best for candidates with a background in soil science, microbial ecology, or biogeochemistry and a passion for hands-on field and lab research.
Overview
The University of Vienna is offering multiple funded doctoral positions within the Vienna Doctoral School of Microbiology and Environmental Science. Successful candidates will join the ActiveSOIL project, an international collaboration focused on understanding how microorganisms drive nutrient cycling in soil to support climate resilience. Working at the Centre for Microbiology and Environmental Systems Science (CeMESS), researchers will conduct both laboratory and field-based studies. Applicants are expected to be highly motivated, collaborative, and prepared to engage in rigorous scientific inquiry and publication.
What you'll do
- Measure gross soil process rates including depolymerisation and mineralisation.
- Link process-rate data to microbial identity and community composition.
- Conduct demanding laboratory and field campaigns for sample collection.
- Manage the full research pipeline from initial sampling to final data interpretation.
- Communicate research findings through high-quality academic publications.
- Participate in interdisciplinary training and seminar series within the doctoral school.
Requirements
Degree required: MSc in Soil Science, Microbial Ecology, Biogeochemistry, or a related field
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English (proficiency required for research and communication)
Instruction: English
- Strong background in soil science, microbial ecology, or biogeochemistry
- Enthusiasm for rigorous, hands-on laboratory and field work
- Collaborative mindset for working within an international team
- Commitment to academic research and publication
- Must hold a Master's degree or equivalent in a relevant field
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-10-15 (CET)
Applications must be submitted through the official University of Vienna job portal. Ensure all required documents are uploaded as part of the complete application package.
- Personal information
- Education and training history
- Professional experience
- Motivation statement
- CV
- Cover letter
- Master Degree or Diploma
Contact
Nadja Holzleitner
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