About the Program
The University of Vienna invites applications for a fully funded PhD in the Anthropology of the Art World titled “The Anthropology of the Future: An Art World Perspective (ANTHROFUTURE)” at the Department of Social and Cultural Anthropology. This doctoral position focuses on examining how futures are imagined, produced, and circulated within global art world infrastructures, addressing the dynamics of digital-physical ecosystems in contemporary artistic practices. The project will be supervised by Prof. Manuela Ciotti and aligns with the department’s expertise in multimodal ethnography and global art studies. The research duration is up to 4 years and is based in Vienna, Austria, with an expected start date of February 2026. This PhD offers opportunities for interdisciplinary training, multimodal fieldwork, international collaboration, and strong academic development within a leading European research institution.
Where Did We Come From? Turn the Page and See
Program Details
- Position: Fully funded PhD Position / Doctoral Researcher
- Institution: University of Vienna
- Department/Faculty: Department of Social and Cultural Anthropology
- Supervisor: Prof. Manuela Ciotti
- Location: Vienna, Austria
- Start Date (Anticipated): February 2026
- Duration: 3–4 years
- Funding: Fully funded prae-doc contract under §48 VwGr. B1 Grundstufe, with a salary based on EUR 3,714.80 (full-time equivalent), plus extensions based on performance
- Working Hours: 30 hours per week
- Required Degree/Diploma: Master’s degree (or equivalent) in a relevant field
Research Focus/Area
- Anthropology of Art
- Digital Anthropology
- Economic Anthropology
- Visual Anthropology
- Anthropology of Data
- Multimodal Ethnography
- Global Art World Infrastructures
Eligibility & Qualifications
Minimum Requirements:
- Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Anthropology or closely related fields
- Strong academic writing skills
- Excellent English proficiency (C1 level)
- Ability to conduct multimodal and ethnographic research
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience in visual or digital ethnography
- Familiarity with art world studies
- Research experience with digital-physical infrastructures
- Strong teamwork and communication skills
- Ability to travel internationally for fieldwork
Key Features of the Program
- Opportunities for multimodal ethnographic fieldwork at major international art fairs (Art Basel, Art Dubai, etc.)
- Supportive and international research environment
- Training in innovative anthropological methods
- Funding for conferences, research travel, and dissemination
- Professional development and academic skill-building
- Integration into a leading research team at one of Europe’s oldest universities
Application Process
How to Apply:
Submit your complete application via the University of Vienna’s online recruitment portal.
Required Documents:
- Letter of motivation (max. 2 pages)
- Curriculum vitae with publications
- Statement of research interests (max. 1 page)
- Writing sample (e.g., thesis chapter or article)
- Master’s degree certificate or diploma copy
- Names and contact details of two referees
Important Dates
- Applications Open: Already open
- Deadline: 21 December 2025
- Interviews: Mid-January 2026
- Start Date: February 2026
Where to Apply
- University Website: University of Vienna
- Official Notification: Click here
- Application Portal: Click here
Learn about more PhD opportunities: HigherJobz
