The University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences Vienna is offering two fully funded PhD (Postgraduate Research Associate) positions in ecology and evolutionary biology. These positions are part of a research project funded by the Austrian Science Fund (FWF), focusing on the ecology and evolution of epiphytes. This opportunity is particularly attractive for candidates interested in plant ecology, evolutionary biology, and international field research, combining laboratory, greenhouse, and tropical fieldwork experience.
This position offers a rare combination of: Fully funded doctoral training in Europe Hands-on tropical fieldwork in Mexico Strong grounding in evolutionary ecology theory Opportunities for international collaboration and publication For early-career researchers aiming to specialize in plant ecology or biodiversity science, this program provides both depth and global exposure.
Position Overview
- Job Title: Postgraduate Research Associate (PhD Candidate)
- Institution: University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences Vienna
- Department: Ecosystem Management, Climate and Biodiversity – Institute of Botany
- Location: Vienna, Austria + Fieldwork in Mexico
- Start Date: August 1, 2026
- Duration: Until July 31, 2029 (3 years)
- Working Hours: 30 hours per week
- Salary: Minimum €2,832.10 gross/month (14 payments per year)
- Application Deadline: May 15, 2026
Research Focus: Epiphyte Evolution and the Enemy Escape Hypothesis
This project explores a central question in plant evolutionary ecology: why and how epiphytes evolved.
Epiphytes are plants that grow on other plants rather than in soil. The project tests the Epiphyte Enemy Escape Hypothesis, which suggests that these plants evolved to avoid soil-based enemies such as pathogens.
The research will investigate whether:
- Epiphytes have lost resistance to soil pathogens
- This loss constrains their ability to grow on the ground
- Evolutionary pressures shaped their unique ecological niche
Research Methods and Fieldwork
The project integrates multiple approaches:
- Field Ecology: Sampling in tropical forests in Veracruz, Mexico
- Greenhouse Experiments: Conducted at Universidad Veracruzana in Xalapa
- Trait-Based Analysis: Measuring plant functional traits
- Data Analysis: Statistical modeling and interpretation
- Scientific Dissemination: Publishing and presenting at international conferences
This combination ensures strong training in both empirical and analytical research.
Key Responsibilities
As a PhD candidate, you will:
- Conduct field sampling in tropical ecosystems
- Cultivate and monitor plants in greenhouse environments
- Measure ecological and physiological plant traits
- Analyze data and co-author scientific publications
- Present research findings at conferences
Required Qualifications
Applicants must have:
- A degree in biology, ecology, or a related field
- Strong proficiency in English (written and spoken)
- Background knowledge in plant ecology
Desirable Skills
While not mandatory, the following are advantageous:
- Basic knowledge of Spanish or German (A2 level)
- Experience in field and laboratory research
- Strong analytical and scientific writing skills
Working Environment at BOKU
The University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences Vienna is a leading European institution in environmental and life sciences, known for:
- Interdisciplinary research in sustainability and biodiversity
- Strong international collaborations
- Advanced research infrastructure
- Supportive academic environment
The university actively promotes diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from women and individuals with disabilities.
Salary and Employment Conditions
- Salary follows the Austrian collective agreement for university staff (Job Group B1)
- Minimum €2,832.10/month (paid 14 times annually)
- Employment is part-time (30 hours/week), standard for PhD roles in Austria
Application Process
Required Documents:
- Motivation letter
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Contact details of 2–3 referees
- Submit your application via email to recruiting@boku.ac.at
- Important: Combine all documents into a single PDF file and include Reference Code 77. Email: recruiting@boku.ac.at
- Deadline: May 15, 2026
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is this a fully funded PhD position?
Yes, it includes a salary under the Austrian university employment system.
2. Where will the research take place?
Primarily in Vienna, with fieldwork in Mexico and greenhouse experiments abroad.
3. Do I need to speak German?
No, but basic German or Spanish is considered an advantage.
4. Is prior fieldwork experience required?
Not mandatory, but it is highly beneficial.
5. What is the duration of the PhD?
The contract runs for 3 years (until July 2029).
6. Can international students apply?
Yes, applications are open globally.
7. What is the working schedule?
30 hours per week, typical for PhD roles in Austria.
8. How competitive is this position?
Moderately competitive due to funding and international research exposure.
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