Praedoc in Dynamics and Thermodynamics of Cold-Air Pooling of Basins at Different Scales Universität Wien

Job description:

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

Praedoc in Dynamics and Thermodynamics of Cold-Air Pooling of Basins at Different Scales

The research group “Experimental Meteorology” led by Manfred Dorninger is part of the Department of Meteorology and Geophysics of the Faculty for Geosciences, Geography and Astronomy. One of our main research directions is to study the dynamics and thermodynamics governing the life cycle of cold-air pools in closed but also open basins. Our “home basin” is the Gruenloch basin in the Alps known as the place with the lowest measured temperatures ever in the Alps with -52,6 deg C. A unique observational data set over more than 25 years of data from this spot but also from other basins waits for a comprehensive analysis in all physical aspects of cold-air pools. Modelling of the processes with a LES (Large Eddy Simulation) model will also be part of your tasks. We highly value collaboration, teaching and outreach.

Your personal sphere of influence:

We are looking for a highly motivated and creative doctoral student to explore fundamental questions of the dynamic and thermodynamic processes of the life-cycle of cold-air pools. Possible topics include the mechanisms that allow cold-air lake oscillations, the role of the ground heat flux for snow melt processes, the influence of the vegetation type and the impact of the air masses on the temperature minima. Whatever the topic, you will also implement and run LES (Large Eddy Simulation) models to combine the modelling work with theory and mechanistic understanding. To build-up your network and foster collaborations you will start by organising a workshop on cold-air pooling in all aspects at our department.

It will be our pleasure to define the concrete research focus together, giving you the possibility to shape your own project.

Your future tasks:

Active participation in research and teaching, which means:

• You conduct research on the topic of your thesis.
• You set-up and run a LES model on the high performance computers of the department.
• You disseminate your research through high-quality peer-reviewed publications and presentations at conferences.
• You teach independently within the scope of the provisions of the collective bargaining agreement.
• You help to build and shape the positive, collaborative culture of our team and the department.
• You become an active member of the doctoral school "Vienna International School of Earth and Space Sciences"

This is part of your personality:

• M.Sc. degree or equivalent in meteorology, climate science, physics or a related field
• Creativity, curiosity, and a proactive approach to problem-solving
• Ambition to plan and conduct independent research that pushes the boundaries of science
• Strong English communication skills

Additional skills that would be an advantage:

• Programming and data analysis experience
• Experience with working on high-performance computers
• Experience in field work especially in mountainous terrain

What we offer:

Fixed-term contract as University assistant predoctoral and adequate salary: The starting date is 1 October 2026. The employment duration is 3 years.
Initially limited to 1.5 years, the employment relationship is automatically extended to 3 years if the employer does not terminate it within the first 12 months by submitting a non-extension letter. Towards the end of the 3 years, an extension to 4 years might be possible in mutual agreement if the successful candidate has shown their abilities and if funds are available.
The basic salary corresponds to the collective agreement for employees of the universities according to § 48 VwGr. B1 basic level (predoc): EUR 3,776.10 on a full-time basis (14x per year, amount as of 1 January 2026) which allows for a comfortable life in a vibrant city with quick access to the outdoors.

Inspiring and supportive working atmosphere: You will be part of an international team in a healthy and fair working environment with excellent research infrastructure. Enrollment in the VISESS doctoral school, with benefits described here: https://visess.univie.ac.at/phd-programme/

Work-life balance: You have flexible working hours and - upon agreement - the option to work remotely partly ("telework" / within Austria).

Training and coaching: We offer you the opportunity to develop your skills on an ongoing basis.

Equal opportunities for everyone: We welcome diverse personalities in our team!

The University of Vienna aims to become carbon neutral by 2030: We fully support low-carbon options fortraveling. 

It is that easy to apply:

• With your scientific curriculum vitae / letter of intent
• With your summary of research interests / ideas for a prospective doctoral project proposal
• Master Degree  /  Diploma
• Via our  job portal/ Apply now -  button

If you have any questions, please contact:

Manfred Dorninger  

manfred.dorninger@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.

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​Application deadline: 07/13/2026 

Apply now