The Institute of Botany at University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna (BOKU) is inviting applications for a career-track academic position (§99 (5) UG) in the field of: Evolutionary Ecology and Population Biology of Plants. This role offers a structured academic pathway from postdoctoral researcher to associate professor, making it one of the most competitive and forward-looking academic opportunities in Europe.

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Position Overview

• Reference Code: 71
• Start Date: October 1, 2026
• Duration: 6 years (tenure-track progression)
• Workload: Full-time (40 hours/week)
• Salary: From €5,014.30 gross/month (14 payments annually)
• Location: Vienna, Austria
• Institution: University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna (BOKU)

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About the Opportunity

This §99 (5) UG position is specifically designed for high-potential academics aiming to build a long-term academic career. It provides:

• A clear pathway from postdoc → assistant professor → associate professor
• Opportunity to achieve habilitation (postdoctoral qualification)
• Integration into a leading European research ecosystem

International experience and mobility are strongly encouraged.

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Research Focus

The position emphasizes cutting-edge research at the intersection of:

• Evolutionary ecology
• Plant population biology
• Global environmental change

Key Research Themes

• Climate change impacts on plant populations
• Plant invasions and land-use change
• Adaptation and fitness under changing environments
• Biodiversity and ecosystem resilience

Candidates are expected to apply advanced methodologies such as:

• Common-garden experiments
• Reciprocal transplant experiments
• Resurrection ecology approaches
• Population genetics and demographic modelling

The Institute provides world-class infrastructure, including:

• Experimental and botanical gardens
• Greenhouses
• Herbarium collections
• Genetics laboratories

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Key Responsibilities

• Conduct independent, internationally competitive research
• Publish in SCI-indexed journals
• Acquire and manage externally funded research projects
• Teach courses in botany and vegetation ecology (BSc & MSc levels)
• Supervise student theses
• Contribute to academic administration and governance
• Support early-career researchers and knowledge transfer

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Candidate Profile

Essential Requirements

• PhD in a relevant discipline
• Strong postdoctoral research experience
• Excellent publication record
• Demonstrated ability to secure research funding
• Expertise in ecological and evolutionary research methods
• Advanced statistical analysis skills

Language Skills

• Fluent English (mandatory)
• German skills or willingness to learn within 2 years

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Preferred Qualifications

• International academic experience
• Teaching and leadership experience
• Project management and organizational skills
• Commitment to diversity, inclusion, and academic collaboration
• Strong botanical knowledge (or willingness to develop expertise in Central European flora)

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What BOKU University Offers

The University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna (BOKU) provides:

• Competitive salary with 14 annual payments
• Structured career development program
• Access to extensive research infrastructure
• Supportive academic environment in Vienna
• Strong emphasis on sustainability and global impact research

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Diversity and Equal Opportunity

BOKU University actively promotes:

• Gender equality (women strongly encouraged to apply)
• Inclusion of candidates with disabilities
• Fair and transparent recruitment processes

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Application Process

Submit your application in English including:

• CV (with ORCID)
• Full publication list
• PDF copies of five key publications
• Research and teaching concept
• Teaching portfolio (with evaluations)
• Statement of suitability (max. 1 page)
• Submission Email: recruiting@boku.ac.at & Make sure to include Reference Code 71 in your application.
• Deadline: May 15, 2026

Make sure to include Reference Code 71 in your application.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is this a permanent position?

It is a tenure-track role with progression to associate professor within six years, subject to performance evaluation.

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2. What is a habilitation?

A habilitation is a postdoctoral qualification required in many European academic systems for senior academic roles.

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3. Do I need German language skills?

Not initially, but you are expected to learn German within the first two years.

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4. What research methods are expected?

Candidates should be familiar with experimental and modelling approaches such as common-garden experiments and population genetics.

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5. Is international experience required?

Yes, international research exposure is strongly valued and often expected.

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6. Can early-career researchers apply?

This role targets researchers with strong postdoctoral experience and high academic potential.

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7. What makes this position competitive?

It combines tenure-track security, strong funding opportunities, and access to advanced research infrastructure in Europe.