About Position/Job
The University of Vienna is inviting applications for a Postdoctoral University Assistant (Postdoc) in Islamic Art History, based at the Faculty of Historical and Cultural Studies. Under the supervision of Prof. Markus Ritter, this part-time role (20 hours/week) offers a four-year contract, extendable up to six years. The position focuses on the art, architecture, and material culture of Islamic societies across the Eastern Mediterranean, Near East, Iran, Central Asia, and India. Research will be embedded within a collaborative and interdisciplinary environment, linking closely with Oriental Studies, Islamic History, and Philology. The post includes the development of an independent research profile, active publishing, and teaching within the BA programme. Vienna offers world-class infrastructure, rich museum and library resources, and a vibrant scholarly community in one of the most liveable cities in the world.
Position/Job Details
- Position: University Assistant Postdoc
- Institution: University of Vienna
- Department: Faculty of Historical and Cultural Studies, Institute of Art History
- Research Field: Islamic Art History
- Location: Vienna, Austria
- Number of Posts: 1
- Job Type: Part-time, Postdoctoral
- Start Date (Anticipated): 01 October 2025 or by appointment
- Working Hours: 20 hours per week
- Salary Range: Starting from €2,466.45/month (gross, with increments for experience)
- Required Degree/Diploma: PhD
Research Area
- Islamic Art History
- Architecture and visual culture of Islamic societies
- Regions: Eastern Mediterranean, Near East, Iran, Central Asia, India
- Periods: Medieval to Modern
- Media: Artworks, images, buildings, and material objects
- Methodologies: Fieldwork, archival research, interdisciplinary collaboration
Eligibility & Qualifications
Minimum Requirements:
- PhD in Art History or a related methodological discipline
- Excellent dissertation in Islamic Art History
- Proven research on Islamic Art History with international publications
- Knowledge of at least one source language: Arabic, Persian, or Ottoman Turkish
- Very good command of English
Preferred Qualifications:
- Teaching experience at university level
- Strong didactic skills
- Teamwork, social and communication skills
- An advanced research project (habilitation, book, or equivalent)
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct independent research in Islamic Art History
- Publish in international academic forums
- Develop and deliver BA-level courses (1 course/semester at 50% employment)
- Collaborate in research and administration at the Chair of Islamic Art History
- Organise workshops and contribute to international scholarly exchange
Application Process
How to Apply:
Submit all documents via the University of Vienna’s online job portal (Apply Now button)
Required Documents:
- Academic CV
- Signed letter of motivation
- Research project exposé (5 pages + outline + bibliography)
- Workshop/conference proposal
- Summaries of PhD and Master’s theses (3 pages), table of contents, evaluations
- Proof of completed PhD and Master’s degrees
- Proof of language proficiency
Important Dates
- Application Opens: Ongoing
- Deadline: 4 September 2025
- Interview Date: Not specified
Useful Links
- Institution Website: University of Vienna
- Official Notification Link: Click here
- Apply Now: Submit your application
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