Senior Scientist (Ancient DNA lab)

The University of Vienna is a community of almost 11,000 individuals, including approximately 7,700 academic staff members, who passionately pursue answers to the profound questions that shape our future. Fueled by curiosity and a deep sense of duty, they contribute invaluable insights to research and teaching, enriching our society. Are you inspired and driven by the desire to make a meaningful impact? We are currently seeking a/an

Senior Scientist (Ancient DNA lab)

50 Faculty of Life Sciences
Startdate:01.06.2026 | Working hours:40 | Collective bargaining agreement:§48 VwGr. B1 lit. b (postdoc)
Limited until:15.12.2026
Reference no.:5601

We are looking for a Scientist to replace the aDNA lab manager during her leave. The Scientist must have experience in ancient DNA laboratories and a background in Biology, Chemistry or Biochemistry. The position duration is related to the leave of the aDNA lab manager.

Your personal sphere of play:

The ancient DNA laboratory at the University of Vienna is located within the Department of Evolutionary Anthropology. It supports the research of multiple groups focused on the study of ancient biomolecules to better understand the human past, as well as past ecosystems and microbiomes.

The scientist will have the opportunity to advance their career in a highly innovative environment, with strong connections to other departments at the University of Vienna and to Austrian institutions through the HEAS network (heas.at). They will also participate in cutting-edge research in the field of paleogenomics.

Your future tasks:

• Lead and coordinate the management and organization of our research laboratory; responsibility for analytical instruments, laboratory infrastructure and day-to-day logistics of the laboratory.
• Develop and improve analytical methods in paleogenomics; lead and conduct experiments which incorporate knowledge from the field of biological anthropology, human anatomy and molecular biology, and perform data analyses.
• Identify the demand and give advice for selection of new instruments; conduct purchases and act as our contact point to suppliers.
• Guide and advise students, technicians, and researchers from undergraduate to post-doctoral level concerning laboratory operations and safety.
• Day-to-day organisation of the lab (including ordering consumables, and scheduling the use of lab space), as well as troubleshooting any issues that may arise during the day-to-day functioning of the lab.
• Train new members of the lab in aDNA protocols. Maintaining a database of samples and sample status. Also, being able to query it efficiently to update any relevant parties about specific samples.Ensuring the safe running of the laboratory by giving all lab users the appropriate training, monitoring and storing chemicals appropriately, preparing protocols and pipelines for lab procedures, organising and monitoring protective gear, and coordinating the regular cleaning and decontamination of the labs.

This is part of your personality:

• Completed a PhD degree in chemistry, biology or biochemistry
• Proven familiarity with standard paleogenomic techniques
• Knowledge and experience of working in aDNA laboratories, including NGS sample preparation in cleanroom environments, in-solution capture and standard quality assessment methods
• The ability to independently plan and carry out experimental work
• A strong understanding of instruments and technology used in the field of paleogenomics
• A team player and open-minded, easily-approachable personality, ideally suited for easy communication with partners in industry and academic research
• Fluent English skills. Knowledge of the German language is a plus for smoother communication with external parties

What we offer:

Work-life balance: Our employees enjoy flexible working hours (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 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 5.014,30 (on a full time basis / 14 times a year for senior scientists postdoctoral, amount as of February 1, 2026) 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 CV including a list of publication and raised funding
• With a short letter of motivation, including a brief summary of your research interest (in maximum one page)
• With explicit statements on each of the points mentioned under "This is part of your personality" (in total maximum two pages)
• Doctoral/PhD Degree
• Contact details of persons who could provide reference letters
• Via our job portal / Apply now - button

If you have any questions, please contact:

Pere Gelabert

pere.gelabert@univie.ac.at

Application deadline: 05/18/2026