Senior Scientist

At the University of Vienna more than 10,000 personalities work together towards answering the big questions of the future. Around 7,500 of them do research and teaching, around 2,900 work in administration and organisation. We are looking for a/an

Senior Scientist

91 Centre for Microbiology and Environmental Systems Science

Job vacancy starting: 01/01/2025 (MM-DD-YYYY) | Working hours: 40,00 | Classification CBA: §48 VwGr. B1 lit. b (postdoc)

Limited contract until:

Job ID: 3384

The Division of Terrestrial Ecosystem Research (TER) at the Centre of Microbiology and Environmental Systems Science (CeMESS) consists of a forward-thinking, creative and ambitious team conducting internationally leading research in the field of terrestrial ecosystem science. We are seeking an accomplished Senior Scientist with outstanding expertise in mathematical modelling of microbial ecosystems and biogeochemical cycles to support and expand research of our Division and Centre.

The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in advancing mathematical modelling within the TER Division and contributing to the cutting-edge research goals of the Cluster of Excellence ‘Microbiomes Drive Planetary Health’ (CoE Microplanet). The appointee will drive the theoretical and conceptual integration of modelling approaches with experimental studies, significantly advancing synthesis and innovation in microbiome research.

The appointee’s key tasks and responsibilities are:

• Conduct high-impact research focusing on the mathematical modelling of complex microbial communities and their ecological functions in terrestrial systems.
• Advance statistical and mathematical modelling methods to analyze and interpret complex microbiome datasets, particularly in microbial co-occurrence and network analysis.
• Develop and refine theoretical concepts in microbial ecology and soil biogeochemistry, integrating them with experimental research conducted at TER and the CoE Microplanet.
• Contribute to project development, from conceptualization to implementation, ensuring integration of modelling into broader research efforts at CeMESS.
• Supervise and mentor Bachelor’s and Master’s students, fostering the next generation of researchers.
• Participate in administrative and teaching activities as required by the collective agreement.

• A doctoral degree in ecology, microbial ecology, theoretical ecology, physics, mathematics, or a related field.
• At least four years of postdoctoral research experience, with a preference for candidates with international experience.
• Strong expertise in ecological theory, complex systems science, and their applications to microbial systems.
• Proven practical experience in diverse modelling approaches, including process-based modelling and individual-based modelling.
• Advanced statistical methods, including high-end network analysis.
• Advanced programming skills in relevant languages or platforms.
• A demonstrated track record of publishing in international peer-reviewed journals.
• Strong scientific writing and communication skills in English (written and spoken).
• Proven ability to work collaboratively in interdisciplinary teams.
• Experience in supervising and mentoring students is highly desirable.

• The opportunity to join an internationally recognized team at the forefront of terrestrial ecosystem science.
• A stimulating and collaborative research environment within the Centre for Microbiology and Environmental Systems Science.
• Access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources to support innovative research.
• The chance to contribute meaningfully to the Cluster of Excellence ‘Microbiomes Drive Planetary Health’ (CoE Microplanet).
• Work-life balance: Our employees enjoy flexible working hours, remote/hybrid and/or part-time work (upon agreement).
• 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.
• Internal further training & Coaching: Opportunity to deepen your skills on an ongoing basis. There are over 600 courses to choose from – free of charge.
• Fixed-term contract and fair salary: The basic salary of EUR 4,752,30 (14 times a year for senior scientists postdoctoral) increases, if we can credit professional experience.
• Equal opportunities for all: We welcome every additional/new personality to the team!

Interested applicants should submit the following documents:

1. A curriculum vitae, including a full list of publications, scientific accomplishments and a list of invited lectures (if applicable).
2. A motivational letter (maximum 2 pages), outlining your vision for contributing to and strengthening research at the Centre and how your expertise aligns with the goals of TER and CoE Microplanet.

• Via our job portal/ Apply now - button

Christina Kaiser

christina.kaiser@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 lay special emphasis on increasing the number of women in senior and in academic positions among the academic and general university staff and therefore expressly encourage qualified women to apply. Given equal qualifications, preference will be given to female candidates.

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Application deadline: 12/18/2024 (MM-DD-YYYY)