Scientific project assistant predoctoral

Your personal sphere of influence:

The research group Statistical Analysis and Inference (STAIN) at the Department of Statistics and Operations Research, University of Vienna, is offering a PhD position in the area of Mathematical Statistics and Machine Learning, starting at the earliest possible date, and no later than September. The doctoral position is funded within the framework of a FWF project and is part of the DFG–FWF Research Unit 5381. The Research Unit offers a highly stimulating and collaborative research environment, including numerous scientific events, workshops, and joint activities, from which early‑career researchers benefit particularly strongly.

Your future tasks:

You actively participate in research and administration, which means:

• In collaboration with your advisor you will develop and complete your own PhD-project in the area of mathematical statistics or the theory of machine learning.
• We expect you to finalize your dissertation agreement (= project proposal) within 12-18 months and that you regularly participate in the PhD seminar.
• You get acquainted with a recent research area, formulate new and relevant mathematical problems and solve them independently under the supervision of your PhD advisor.
• You take on administrative tasks in research.
• You work on your own publications, academic articles and presentations.

This is part of your personality:

• Completed Master's degree or diploma, in the field of statistics, mathematics or a closely related field (completed or about to be completed).
• A strong background in mathematical statistics and probability theory.
• Enthusiasm for abstract mathematical problems and strong tenacity and patience in solving them.
• Active interaction and discussion with the colleagues from the research group and the department.
• Programming skills.
• Didactic competences / experience with e-learning.
• Excellent command of written and spoken English (C1 Level).

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 declaration of non-extension. With appropriate work progress, an extension to a total maximum of 4 years is possible.

Work-life balance: Our employees enjoy flexible working hours and can partially work remotely.

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 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 3.776,10 (on a full-time basis) increases if we can credit professional experience.

Equal opportunities for all: We welcome every additional/new personality to the team!

It is that easy to apply:

• With your scientific curriculum vitae.
• With a letter of intent outlining especially your previous experience with mathematical problem solving (max. 1 page).
• With your summary of research interests (max. 1 page)
• With contact details of at least two persons who agreed to provide reference letters upon request.
• Transcripts and Master Degree / Diploma (if available).
• Via our job portal/ Apply now - button.

If you have any questions, please contact:

Johannes Moritz Jirak

Application deadline: 05/11/2026