PhD in Prehistory & Archaeology – Vienna

About Position/Job

The University of Vienna is offering a predoctoral PhD university assistant position in the field of Prehistory and Historical Archaeology, with a focus on Metal Age lifeworlds and bio-archaeological research. This four-year, part-time (30 hours/week) post is based at the Institute for Prehistory and Historical Archaeology and closely affiliated with the ‘Body and Material Culture’ research group led by Katharina Rebay-Salisbury. The successful candidate will actively participate in ongoing research, develop a PhD project focused on Bronze or Iron Age burial or settlement features, and contribute to academic teaching and administration. The university offers a collaborative and interdisciplinary research environment, flexible working arrangements, and a strong commitment to equality and diversity. Applications are open until 31 July 2025.

Position/Job Details

Position: University Assistant Predoctoral
Institution: University of Vienna
Department: Faculty of Historical and Cultural Studies, Institute for Prehistory and Historical Archaeology
Research Field: Prehistory, Historical Archaeology, Bioarchaeology
Location: Vienna, Austria
Number of Posts: 1
Job Type: Part-time (30 hours/week), Fixed-term
Start Date (Anticipated): 1 November 2025
Working Hours: 30 hours per week
Salary Range: €2,786.10/month gross (B1 collective agreement, step 1)
Required Degree/Diploma: Master’s

Research Area

Prehistory
Historical Archaeology
Bioarchaeology
Material Culture Studies
Metal Age Archaeology

Eligibility & Qualifications

Minimum Requirements:

Master’s degree in Prehistory, Archaeology, or a related discipline
Specialised knowledge in bioarchaeology (osteology, zoology, etc.)
Excavation and documentation experience
Good command of English (written and spoken)

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience with QGIS and digital image processing
Prior involvement in archaeological research projects
Basic knowledge of German at the start; C1 level expected during contract

Key Responsibilities

Conduct research on Bronze or Iron Age burial or settlement features
Participate in the ‘Body and Material Culture’ research group
Develop and complete a dissertation within four years
Teach undergraduate courses as per collective agreement
Organise and participate in conferences, workshops, and symposia
Contribute to administration and academic service at the Institute

Application Process

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted in English or German.

Required Documents:

Cover/motivation letter (max. 2 pages)
Dissertation project description (max. 2 pages)
Chapter from Master’s thesis or a scientific publication
CV
Copies of academic degrees

Submit your application online via the University of Vienna portal. For enquiries, contact:
Katharina Rebay-Salisbury – katharina.rebay-salisbury@univie.ac.at