University assistant predoctoral/ PhD Candidate

At the University of Vienna almost 11,000 personalities work together towards answering the big questions of the future. The Faculty of Physics is looking for a University assistant predoctoral/ PhD Candidate.

Job vacancy starting: 01.11.2026 | Working hours: 30.00 | Classification CBA: §48 VwGr. B1 Grundstufe (praedoc). Limited contract until: 31.10.2030. Job ID: 6201.

Are you interested in the study of problems in quantum many-body physics through the lens of quantum information and quantum computing? Do you enjoy studying complex quantum mechanical systems both from a physical and a mathematical perspective? Then apply now to join the Quantum Information and Quantum Many-Body Physics research group.

Your personal sphere of influence:

As a university assistant (praedoc) on this 4-year position you will be part of the Quantum Information and Quantum Many-Body Physics group, led by Prof. Norbert Schuch. The research lies at the interface of Quantum Information and Computation with the study of Complex Quantum Many-Body Systems and combines methods from Physics and Mathematics with concepts from Theoretical Computer Science.

The research group is located jointly at the Faculty of Physics, as part of the Quantum Science Group, and at the Faculty of Mathematics. It is a member of the Vienna Center for Quantum Science and Technology and of the Austrian Cluster of Excellence quantA. More information can be found at https://schuch.univie.ac.at/.

Your future tasks:

• You conduct research at the interface between Quantum Information and Quantum Many-Body Physics, with a focus on high-energy physics, quantum information and entanglement.
• You continuously stay informed about the state of the art in your field.
• You present your research plan to the faculty and complete a dissertation agreement within 12-18 months.
• You work on your dissertation project and towards its timely completion.
• You contribute to teaching, such as lab courses or exercise classes.
• You contribute to publications, conference presentations and outreach activities.
• You take on administrative tasks in research, teaching and administration.

This is part of your personality:

• You have completed your Master’s degree in physics with excellent grades and with a focus on theoretical physics.
• You have conducted a Master’s thesis in theoretical physics.
• You possess proven expertise in theoretical high-energy physics, quantum field theory and theoretical quantum information.
• You have an excellent command of written and spoken English.
• You demonstrate didactic competence and a positive attitude towards interactions with students.
• You are open towards participating in outreach activities.
• You show social competence and the ability to work effectively in a team.
• You are self-motivated, eager to grow and capable of working independently.

What we offer:

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 in the center of Vienna is easily accessible by public transport.

Potential for development: There are opportunities to connect to relevant top research groups in the world.

Internal further training & Coaching: The Vienna Doctoral Schools and the department of human resources offer many opportunities to grow your skills in over 600 courses free of charge.

Fair salary: The basic salary is EUR 3,776.10 on a full-time basis per week, 14 times per year, and increases if professional experience can be credited. The duration of employment is 4 years.

How to apply:

The following documents must be provided via the job portal by clicking on the Apply now button:

• Your letter of motivation
• Your scientific CV
• A short statement on your future research interests
• Your Bachelor’s degree and Master’s degree plus all relevant transcripts and grades
• The abstracts of both your Bachelor’s Thesis and your Master’s Thesis
• The contact information of two people who can provide letters of recommendation upon request

If you have any content questions, please contact:

Norbert Schuch

norbert.schuch@univie.ac.at

Application deadline: 02.10.2026