Doctoral Position in Soil Ecology and Microbial Biogeochemistry

The University of Vienna invites applications for a fully funded PhD position within the Vienna Doctoral School of Microbiology and Environmental Science. Working in the Soil Ecology Group at the Centre for Microbiology and Environmental Systems Science (CeMESS), the successful candidate will participate in the international ActiveSOIL project funded by the Novo Nordisk Foundation. The research focuses on measuring gross soil process rates and connecting them to microbial community dynamics through both rigorous laboratory analyses and demanding field campaigns. The candidate will receive structured doctoral training, benefit from close international collaboration with partner institutions in Denmark, the UK, and the USA, and contribute actively to scientific publications.

• Measure gross soil process rates ranging from depolymerisation to mineralisation using stable isotope pool dilution assays.
• Link soil process data to microbial identity, community composition, and overall soil health metrics.
• Execute demanding laboratory workflows and participate in coordinated field campaigns.
• Manage the complete research pipeline from sample collection and preparation to data interpretation.
• Collaborate closely with international project partners across Denmark, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
• Communicate research findings through peer-reviewed scientific publications and presentations at academic conferences.