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. They represent individuals driven by curiosity and a relentless pursuit of excellence. With us, they find the space to try things out and unfold their potential. Are you inspired by their passion and determination? We are currently seeking a/an
Scientific project assistant predoctoral
52 Faculty of Chemistry
Job vacancy starting: 01/01/2027 | Working hours: 30.00 | Classification CBA: §48 VwGr. B1 Grundstufe (praedoc)
Limited contract until:
Job ID: 6283
Explore and teach at the University of Vienna, where more than 7,700 academics thrive on curiosity in continuous exploration and help us better understand our world. Does this sound like you? Then join our accomplished team!
Your personal sphere of influence:
As a scientific project assistant prae doc, you will complement the research team around Dr. Pavel Pokhilko and work on an individual project focused on the development of new coupled-cluster
methods for strongly correlated molecules and materials and the subsequent applications of the created methods to magnetic materials and catalysts. Each student will work on an individual project focused on the development of new coupled-cluster methods
for strongly correlated systems. Subsequently, you will apply these methods to magnetic materials and catalysts. The team will be embedded in Prof. Leticia González’s group at the University of Vienna. You will have a unique opportunity to interact with group members working on a broad range of scientific problems, such as semiclassical nonadiabatic dynamics, quantum dynamics, photocatalysis, solvation, and other actively investigated areas.
Your future tasks:
You actively participate in the FWF ASTRA Merit project “Coupled-Cluster Methods for Strongly Correlated Materials”. You will develop expertise in
- Development of coupled-cluster and many-body methods.
- Strong electron correlation and magnetism.
- Applications to realistic systems.
- Industry-level C++ programming.
- Attending conferences and presenting your research.
This is part of your personality:
- An MSc degree (or equivalent) in chemistry, physics, or a related field. The degree must be
- obtained before the start of the employment.
- Good written and spoken English. (Knowledge of German is not required.)
- Knowledge of quantum mechanics and quantum chemistry.
- Experience in programming.
We especially welcome applicants who enjoy mathematical reasoning and difficult conceptual problems.
What we offer:
Work-life balance: Our employees enjoy flexible working hours and can partially work remotely.
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.
Fair salary: The basic salary of EUR 3.776,10 (on a full-time basis) increases if we can credit professional experience.
Get off to a great start in your new job: the Welcome Compass helps you settle into your new role at the University of Vienna and life in Vienna.
Equal opportunities for all: We welcome every additional/new personality to the team!
It is that easy to apply:
- With your scientific curriculum vitae / letter of intent
- Master Degree / Diploma
- Two reference contacts
- Via our job portal/ Apply now - button
If you have any questions, please contact:
Pavel Pokhilko
pavel.pokhilko@univie.ac.at
We look forward to new personalities in our team!
The University of Vienna has an anti-discriminatory employment policy and attaches great importance to equal opportunities, the advancement of women and diversity. We place particular emphasis on enhancing women’s representation among the academic and general university staff, particularly in leadership roles, and therefore expressly encourage qualified women to apply. Given equal qualifications, preference will be given to female candidates.
University of Vienna. Space for personalities. Since 1365.
Data protection
Application deadline: 11/30/2026
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QUANTUM ROLE CONTEXT | Appended by Quantum.Jobs v2
Role context:
This predoctoral research position exists to conduct foundational academic research within theoretical chemistry and computational physics. Situated within an academic research group, the position operates at the entry level of doctoral research, supporting senior researchers while carrying out focused methodology studies. The position contributes to the theoretical workflow by formulating mathematical algorithms, implementing scientific code, and testing electronic structure models on complex molecular systems, bridging fundamental theory with computational implementation in a university setting.
Quantum ecosystem relevance:
The position contributes to the quantum ecosystem by advancing theoretical electronic structure methods that support quantum chemistry simulations. Developing advanced many-body algorithms helps refine classical computational models used to benchmark quantum algorithms and understand strongly correlated quantum systems. By advancing computational chemistry models, the role provides methodological foundations for simulating complex molecular dynamics, supporting broader efforts in quantum chemistry, materials discovery, and the theoretical frameworks underlying quantum information science.
Capability signals:
- Academic background in physics, chemistry, or related theoretical disciplines
- Knowledge of quantum mechanics principles and electronic structure theoretical concepts
- Experience writing software code for technical or scientific computing applications
- Aptitude for mathematical reasoning and solving complex theoretical modeling challenges
- Ability to analyze chemical systems using computational methodology and simulation tools
