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• Caslav BRUKNER - Quantum Reference Frames

  We are offering a PhD position in the field of quantum reference frames.

  • Field: Quantum information, quantum foundations, and relativistic and gravitational quantum physics.
  • Requirements: Strong background in quantum mechanics and quantum information; familiarity with relativity and gravity is a plus.
  • What we offer: A collaborative research environment at the interface of quantum theory and gravity, with opportunities to contribute to fundamental advancements.

  Quantum reference frames are reference frames that are themselves treated as quantum systems, rather than classical entities. They play a crucial role in extending fundamental concepts of physics—such as transformations, symmetries, and measurements—into the quantum regime. The project focuses on developing a full measurement theory for quantum reference frames, addressing how measurements are defined and interpreted when reference frames themselves are quantum systems.

   

  For more details, please visit: www.quantumfoundations.org  
• Thomas PICHLER - Low Dimensional Quantum Solids

  Job vacancy starting: 01 May 2025 | Working hours:  30.00  | Classification CBA: §48 VwGr. B1 Grundstufe (praedoc) | Limited contract until: 30 April 2029

   

  Are you intrigued by challenges at the forefront of research? Are you passionate about science and the way of living as a scientist with experimental focus? Do you want to contribute to pushing the boundaries of scientific knowledge? Are you a team player who loves to discuss science and to develop new cutting edge technologies in the laboratory? Then you should consider becoming a member of the Low Dimensional Quantum Solids team.

   

  Your personal sphere of influence:

  As a university assistant (praedoc) on this 4-year position, you will be part of the ambitious Low Dimensional Quantum Solids team around Professor Thomas Pichler, and you will be focusing on the nanospectroscopic analysis of layered 2D materials such as transition metal dichacegonides. This includes the development of new advanced experimental tools involving optical spectroscopy (IR, Raman and PL) as well as electron spectroscopy (TEM-EELS, Photoemission) and microscopy (MORE-TEM).

  
  We are working on the development of new techniques to advance the state of the art experimental developments approaching the Heisenberg limit with respect to the required combined high spatial, energy & momentum (q)-resolution for microscopic imaging, structural characterization and associated nanospectroscopic analysis at all energy scales. This enables us to investigate dispersion and lifetime of primary excitations (e.g. phonons, plasmons & excitons) in nanomaterials including molecules, 1D nanotubes, 2D materials, heterostructures with a few nm of lateral resolution on samples as thin as an atomic monolayer. This facilitates the control on quantum phases, like charge-density waves and superconductivity, to engineer new materials for energy (e.g. batteries, (opto-)electronic devices in electrons).
  You will also benefit from being a fellow of the Vienna Doctoral School in Physics (VDSP) which connects you with the local PhD community, offers plenty of opportunities to grow your skills, and supports you in networking with the international scientific community.

  
  Our team is member of the Vienna Doctoral School in Physics and of the faculty research group Electronic Properties of Materials. The work will be also related to the ERC-Syn Project MORE-TEM and in an international cooperation to the OVID (Osaka-Vienna International Development) laboratory. The Pichler team unites an international team of around 10 young scientists who love to solve challenges and working together. Together we have assembled a unique skill set and knowledge base in solid state physics and nanospectroscopy including cutting edge methods development (e.g. MORE-TEM) and advanced synthesis and functionalization of low dimensional advanced materials such as graphene, nanotubes, carbyne TMDC.  Working with us means getting a broad education in understanding novel low dimensional advanced materials, exploring the scientific frontiers towards accessing their application potential by solving unexplored challenges.

   

  The employment duration is 4 years. Initially limited to 1.5 years, the employment relationship is automatically extended to 4 years if the employer does not terminate it within the first 12 months by submitting a non-extension declaration.

   

  Your future tasks:

  You will actively participate in research, teaching & administration. This means:
  

  • You are involved in a specific and well-funded research project, here focused on the nanospectroscopic analysis of layered 2D materials such as transition metal dichacegonides.  
  • You will present your research plan to the faculty and complete a dissertation agreement within 12-18 months. This will be reviewed and adapted on an annual basis.
  • You will work on your dissertation and towards its completion in time. We expect a large degree of independence paired with a high level of social awareness as the goal will only be achieved in a team.
  • You will contribute to teaching (lab courses, exercise classes) within the provisions of the collective bargaining agreement.
  • You will fill some administrative tasks, contributing to the success and self-organization of the group for research, teaching and administration.
  • You will continuously stay informed about the state of the art in your field.
  • You contribute to outreach by publications, conference presentations and public activities.

   

  This is part of your personality:

  • You have completed your Master's degree or Diploma in physics.
  • You have experience in academic writing.
  • You have experience in digital experimental control and scientific data processing.
  • You have already a background in solid state spectroscopy and material science.
  • You have an excellent command of written and spoken English.

   

  What we offer:

  • Inspiring working atmosphere: You are a part of an international academic team in a healthy and fair working environment.
  • Potential for development: Success in life depends on what you make of it, but if you are ambitious and successful, there are plenty of opportunities to connect you to all relevant top research groups in the world.
  • Internal further training & Coaching: The Vienna Doctoral School as well as the department of human resources offer plenty of opportunities to grow your skills in over 600 courses to choose from – free of charge.
  • Fair salary: The basic salary of EUR 3,714.80 (on a full-time basis, 14x p.a.) increases if we can credit professional experience.
  • Equal opportunities for everyone: We look forward to diverse personalities in the team!

   

  It is that easy to apply:

  • Your scientific curriculum vitae.
  • A summary of your previous academic and research achievements. Tell us what you’re proud of.
  • A short statement on your research interests for the future. Tell us what you dream about, scientifically.
  • Your Bachelor’s and Master‘s degree: an excellent academic degree is a good entrance statement for this position.
    

  Note, that while a Master’s degree is the usual legal prerequisite for a PhD position at the University of Vienna, we can consider Bachelors (preferentially with Honor’s) in exceptional cases, too.

   

  If you have any questions, please contact: Thomas Pichler thomas.pichler@univie.ac.at

  
  The University of Vienna has an anti-discriminatory employment policy and attaches great importance to equal opportunities, the advancement of women and diversity. We lay special emphasis on increasing the number of women in senior and in academic positions among the academic and general university staff and therefore expressly encourage qualified women to apply. Given equal qualifications, preference will be given to female candidates.

   

  ​Application deadline: 30 April 2025

   

  APPLY HERE: https://jobs.univie.ac.at/job/University-assistant-predoctoralPhD-Candidate/1183318701/

   
• Marcus SPERLING - Quantum Field Theory

  We invite applications for a fully funded PhD position at the University of Vienna, as part of the FWF START project Phases of Quantum Field Theories: Symmetries and Vacua led by Marcus Sperling.

  This project explores cutting-edge topics in quantum field theory (QFT), with a focus on supersymmetric theories, magnetic quivers, generalised symmetries, and their deep connections to modern mathematics, such as symplectic singularities and higher structures.

  You will join a dynamic research team, including a postdoc, another PhD student, and MSc students, with many opportunities for international collaboration. Moreover, our group is embedded within

  the Mathematical Physics group at the University of Vienna, which provides a vibrant and stimulating environment. The faculty hosts experts in conformal and topological quantum field theory, category theory, non-commutative geometry, and quantum geometry, with a strong perspective on quantum gravity. This setting offers a rich intellectual atmosphere and numerous possibilities for interaction and collaboration across different areas of mathematical physics.

   

  More about the project: https://quiverqft.univie.ac.at

  Mathematical Physics group: mathphys.univie.ac.at

   

  Position Details

  • Start date: no later than 01 October 2025
  • Duration: 3 years
  • Salary: According to FWF Standard Personnel Costs for doctoral candidates
  • Additional benefits: Access to the Vienna Doctoral School in Physics, offering advanced training, career support, and networking opportunities

   

  Your Profile

  We are looking for highly motivated candidates with a strong interest in theoretical physics and mathematics. Applicants should hold a completed Master’s degree (or equivalent) in physics and have a solid background in:

  • Quantum field theory
  • General relativity / differential geometry
  • Group and representation theory
  • Experience with supersymmetry, string theory, and algebraic geometry is highly desirable. Familiarity with Mathematica or other programming tools is a plus.
  • Experience with supersymmetry, string theory, and algebraic geometry is highly desirable. Familiarity with Mathematica or other programming tools is a plus.
  • Language: Proficiency in English (spoken and written) at CEFR level C1 or higher is required.

   

  Application Documents

  Please submit your application as a single PDF file (max. 10MB)

  containing:

  1. Academic CV
  2. Transcripts of records for BSc and MSc (in English or German)
  3. Names and contact details of two referees (including your MSc thesis supervisor).

   

  For questions regarding the position please contact: quiverQFT.mathphys@univie.ac.at

   

  Why Vienna?

  The University of Vienna is one of Europe’s leading research institutions and is committed to equal opportunities. Vienna consistently ranks among the world’s most livable cities, offering an excellent quality of life and vibrant academic culture.

  Join us and contribute to exciting new developments in quantum field theory! We look forward to your application.