"PhD Position in Analytical Chemistry"

The Cluster of Excellence Circular Bioengineering is revolutionizing how we think about sustainable production. By combining bioengineering, materials science, and chemistry, the cluster aims to establish innovative, closed-loop material cycles for zero-waste production and maximal resource efficiency.

At the heart of the cluster, three interconnected research pillars drive innovation:

• Sustainable Natural Resource Utilization
• Microbial and Enzymatic Conversion
• Process Circularity

A PhD position is available in the group of Prof. Köllensperger, at the Institute of Analytical Chemistry starting October 2025. The group pioneers metabolomics research, developing innovative analytical workflows with liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry to investigate small-molecule metabolites with exceptional precision. The candidate's project will focus on analytical metabolomics for (sub)cellular analysis. The method-oriented research plan supports cutting-edge biotechnology on synthetic organelles and new-to-nature pathway design to maximize nutrient and energy efficiency. Information about the group can be found at https://koellenspergerlab.univie.ac.at.

Your future tasks: You actively participate in research, teaching & administration, which means: You are involved in research projects and scientific studies in the area of analytical chemistry. You develop rapid methods for isolating highly pure organelles. You will conduct research into metabolomics based on small-scale mass spectrometry. Data analysis in metabolomics/lipidomics based mass spectrometry. We expect you to finalize your dissertation agreement within 12-18 months. You work on your dissertation and its completion. You hold courses independently within the scope of the provisions of the collective bargaining agreement. You take on administrative tasks in research, teaching and administration.

This is part of your personality: Completed Master's degree or diploma, in the field chemistry, preferably with a focus on analytical chemistry and computer-aided chemistry or an equivalent qualification. Experience in the area bioanalytical chemistry. Initial experience in scientific writing. Didactic competences / experience with e-learning. IT user skills: MS Office. Desirable knowledge in statistical analysis of big data. Excellent command of written and spoken English (C1 Level), furthermore very good command of German (B2 Level). You should be a team player with high social skills.

What we offer: The employment duration is 3 years. Initially limited to 1.5 years, the employment relationship is automatically extended to 3 years if the employer does not terminate it within the first 12 months by submitting a non-extension declaration. An extension to 4 years is possible if the employee proves themselves and makes appropriate progress in their work. Work-life balance: Our employees enjoy flexible, family-friendly working hours, remote/hybrid (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. Fair salary: The basic salary of EUR 3.714,80 (on a full-time basis) increases if we can credit professional experience. Equal opportunities for everyone: We look forward to diverse personalities in the team!

It is that easy to apply: With your scientific curriculum vitae / letter of intent (max. 2 pages). With your summary of research interests / ideas for a prospective doctoral project proposal (max. 1 page). Bachelor and Master Degree / Diploma. Via our job portal / Apply now - button.

If you have any questions, please contact: Gunda Köllensperger at gunda.koellensperger@univie.ac.at.