PRAEDOC DISS (F/M/X)

The Institute of Iranian Studies (IFI) of the Austrian Academy of Sciences (OeAW), Austria’s leading non-university research and science institution, is offering a position as

PRAEDOC DISS (F/M/X)

(part-time, 30h/week)

within the framework of the Cluster of Excellence „EurAsian Transformations – Resources of the Past and the Challenge of Diversity“ EurAsian Transformations, funded by the Austrian Science Fund FWF for the period of 2023–2028. The COE involves more than 30 researchers from four academic institutions (Austrian Academy of Sciences, University of Vienna, Central European University, University of Innsbruck). We explore major questions of current research using original sources in dozens of languages, and analyse cultural and religious, economic and political connections comparatively. We strive for a fruitful interdisciplinary dialogue and seek cooperation with the regions involved in order to create new academic infrastructures in Austria and internationally and to promote plurilateral research perspectives. EurAsia explores the transformation processes of Eurasia - understood as the entire landmass of both continents, Europe and Asia - from antiquity to the present.

The doctoral position is assigned to research on the history of 19th to early 20th-century Caucasus or Central Asia. The successful candidate will pursue a PhD dissertation at the University of Vienna, while being integrated in the Institute of Iranian Studies, an internationally leading research institute of the Austrian Academy of Sciences. Doctoral students already enrolled at this university may also apply. Within the larger environment of the Cluster, the position offers the opportunity to link focused research on the Caucasus or Central Asia to larger questions in the humanities, to develop research in continuous inter-disciplinary exchange and to thereby develop a broader outlook on the area of study. Opportunities for mentoring and training in career-relevant skills are available.

• Pursuing a PhD dissertation project of your choice related to the history of the Caucasus or Central Asia
• Engaging in interdisciplinary collaboration and dialogue within the Cluster of Excellence EurAsia
• Active participation in the Cluster’s activities in the domains of research, training and knowledge transfer
• International presentations and publication of project results
• Active participation in the activities of the Institute for Iranian Studies

• Completed MA in a humanities field relevant to the study of the modern Caucasus or Central Asia
• Excellent knowledge of primary language(s) of the Caucasus or Central Asia relevant to your research
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English
• Knowledge of relevant modern research languages other than English
• Openness to interdisciplinary collaboration and dialogue
• Flexibility, strong communication skills, creativity, ability to work in a team

The position is awarded on a fixed-term basis for 36 months for an annual gross salary of € 39.208,80 paid out conditional on proof of enrolment at the University of Vienna. The starting date is flexible, but must not be earlier than May 01, 2025 and not later than September 01, 2025. PhD supervision arrangements depend on the chosen focus; further information on supervision can be provided upon e-mail request to Florian Schwarz.

Please apply online including a (1) cover letter, (2) academic CV and (3) outline of planned dissertation project of research interest no later than March 31, 2025.

Any queries may be directed to Dr. Florian Schwarz.

The Austrian Academy of Sciences (OeAW) pursues a non-discriminatory employment policy and values equal opportunities, as well as diversity. Individuals from underrepresented groups are particularly encouraged to apply.