University of Vienna Predoctoral PhD Position 2027 in International Business and Economics
The University of Vienna is inviting applications for a University Assistant Predoctoral (Prae Doc) position in the Faculty of Business, Economics and Statistics. The position is based in the area of International Business and offers an opportunity for a qualified Master’s graduate to combine doctoral research with teaching, academic research, administration, funding activities, and third mission work.
The position is particularly relevant to graduates interested in International Business, International Management, Management, SME internationalization, family firms, and multinational enterprises (MNEs). The successful candidate will join the research team of Univ. Prof. Dr. Emmanuella Plakoyiannaki at the University of Vienna and work in an international academic environment.
The position is scheduled to start on 1 March 2027 and has a working time of 30 hours per week. The advertised employment is associated with a doctoral research pathway and is initially limited to 1.5 years, with the employment relationship automatically extending to four years if the employer does not terminate it within the first 12 months through a non-extension declaration.
University Assistant Predoctoral Position at the University of Vienna
The University of Vienna is one of Europe’s established academic institutions and brings together thousands of academic and professional staff working across a wide range of disciplines. This predoctoral position provides an opportunity for an early-career researcher to become part of the university’s Faculty of Business, Economics and Statistics while developing a doctoral research project in International Business.
The successful candidate will work with the International Business research team led by Univ. Prof. Dr. Emmanuella Plakoyiannaki. The team’s research focuses particularly on the internationalization of family firms, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and multinational enterprises (MNEs) and uses both qualitative and quantitative research approaches.
The position combines research and doctoral study with teaching, administration, funding proposal development, and third mission activities. Candidates are therefore expected to be interested not only in completing a PhD but also in participating actively in the wider academic activities of the research group.
Position Details
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Position | University Assistant Predoctoral (Prae Doc) |
| University | University of Vienna |
| Faculty | Faculty of Business, Economics and Statistics |
| Research area | International Business |
| Reference number | 6215 |
| Start date | 1 March 2027 |
| Working hours | 30 hours per week |
| Employment category | §48 VwGr. B1 Grundstufe (praedoc) |
| Initial limitation | 1.5 years |
| Potential total duration | 4 years |
| Application deadline | 27 October 2026 |
| Location | Vienna, Austria |
Research Area: International Business
The position is located within the field of International Business, with a particular research focus on the internationalization of family firms, SMEs, and multinational enterprises. The research team uses both qualitative and quantitative methodological approaches. This provides a broad methodological environment for doctoral researchers who are interested in examining international business phenomena through different forms of empirical research.
The position may therefore be suitable for candidates who have already received research-methods training and want to develop deeper expertise in academic research, theory development, empirical analysis, and scholarly writing.
Your Role as a Predoctoral University Assistant
As a University Assistant Predoctoral, the successful candidate will participate actively in the research activities of the International Business team. The position is designed to combine employment within the university with the development and completion of a doctoral dissertation.
A key expectation is that the candidate will finalize their PhD dissertation agreement within 12 to 18 months. The successful applicant will then continue working on the doctoral dissertation while contributing to the team’s research, teaching, administration, funding activities, and third mission work. This makes the position relevant to graduates who are looking for a PhD position in Austria that combines doctoral research with practical experience in university teaching and academic project activities.
Your Future Research and Academic Tasks
The successful candidate will be involved in research projects and scientific studies in International Business. These projects may address topics related to SME internationalization, family firm internationalization, and multinational enterprise internationalization, depending on the research activities of the group.
In addition to participating in research projects, the candidate will work on their own PhD dissertation and its completion. The university expects the doctoral agreement to be finalized within the first 12 to 18 months of employment.
The position also includes teaching responsibilities. The successful candidate will be expected to independently teach courses within the scope permitted by the applicable collective bargaining agreement.
Administrative responsibilities will form another part of the role. These tasks may relate to research, teaching, and general academic administration within the research group or university. The position also involves actively identifying potential funding opportunities and participating in the preparation of funding proposals. The successful candidate may additionally lead or support third mission activities of the International Business research group.
What Is the Research Environment Like?
The International Business research team consists of professors, a postdoctoral researcher, and administrative colleagues. The university describes the team as having a strong collaborative spirit, intellectual curiosity, and enthusiasm for working together across research, teaching, and third mission activities.
The position therefore involves more than individual doctoral research. Candidates are expected to participate actively in the academic community, collaborate with colleagues, contribute to teaching and research activities, and take initiative in areas relevant to the team’s work.
Motivation, commitment to teamwork, initiative, proactive engagement, and enthusiasm are among the qualities highlighted in the position description. These qualities may be reflected in the candidate’s CV, previous experience, and, where applicable, the interview process.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants should have a completed Master’s degree in International Business, International Management, or the broader field of Management with an international emphasis. The degree should provide an appropriate academic foundation for doctoral research in International Business.
Candidates should also have a clear interest in conducting research in the field of International Business. Basic experience in academic writing and research methods is expected, which may be demonstrated through relevant university training, research experience, or academic publications. The position requires an excellent command of written and spoken English at C1 level. Knowledge of German is desirable but is explicitly stated as not being a prerequisite for the position.
Research Methods and Software Skills
Applicants are expected to have basic experience with academic research methods. Knowledge of both qualitative and quantitative research methods is desirable because the International Business team draws on both methodological approaches.
Experience with research software can be an advantage. For qualitative research, relevant tools may include ATLAS.ti and NVivo, while experience with quantitative analysis software such as SPSS or R can also be beneficial. Applicants should also have standard IT user skills, including experience with Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
Candidates do not necessarily need to have advanced expertise in every research method or software package listed in the vacancy. However, demonstrating relevant research training and a willingness to develop further methodological skills can be important for a doctoral position involving both qualitative and quantitative research.
Personal Qualities the University Is Looking For
The University of Vienna is looking for a candidate who can contribute positively to a collaborative academic environment. The position description emphasizes qualities such as being a team player, having strong social skills, showing initiative, and approaching academic work proactively.
Motivation, commitment, diligence, intellectual curiosity, and a focus on producing high-quality academic content are also highlighted. Candidates should therefore present their academic background and research interests clearly in their application and demonstrate how these connect with the International Business research area.
Salary and Employment Conditions
The advertised basic salary is EUR 3,776.10 on a full-time basis, with the possibility of a higher salary where professional experience can be credited.
The position itself is advertised with a 30-hour working week, so applicants should distinguish the stated full-time salary basis from the actual working hours of the advertised position. Exact remuneration should be confirmed through the official University of Vienna vacancy and applicable collective bargaining provisions.
The position is initially limited to 1.5 years. According to the vacancy, the employment relationship is automatically extended to a total duration of four years if the employer does not terminate it within the first 12 months by submitting a non-extension declaration.
This four-year framework is particularly relevant to applicants planning a doctoral research project because it provides an employment structure extending beyond the initial period and aligns with the broader duration stated in the vacancy.
Work-Life Balance and Flexible Working
The University of Vienna highlights flexible working arrangements as part of its employment environment. Employees can benefit from flexible working hours and may also have the possibility to work remotely on a partial basis.
The university also emphasizes its international academic environment and a workplace designed around a healthy and fair working culture. These conditions are intended to support employees while they develop their academic and professional careers.
Training and Professional Development
The position provides opportunities for further professional development through the University’s internal training and coaching programs. According to the vacancy, employees can choose from more than 600 courses free of charge.
For a predoctoral researcher, this can complement the academic training provided through doctoral research. Professional development opportunities may be relevant for developing research, teaching, communication, organizational, and other transferable academic skills.
Public Transport and Location
The position is based at the University of Vienna in Vienna, Austria. The university highlights good public transport connections, with the workplace being accessible through Vienna’s public transportation network. For international applicants considering doctoral employment in Austria, Vienna also provides an international academic environment with researchers and students from many different backgrounds.
Application Requirements
Applicants are asked to submit several key documents as part of the application. The application should include a scientific curriculum vitae and letter of intent, together with a summary of research interests and ideas for a prospective doctoral project proposal.
Applicants must also provide their Master’s degree documentation. The complete application must be submitted through the University’s job portal using the online application system.
Required Application Documents
The application should include:
- A scientific curriculum vitae
- A letter of intent
- A summary of research interests
- Ideas for a prospective doctoral project proposal
- Master’s degree documentation
- Any additional materials requested through the official job portal
Candidates should ensure that their research interests and proposed doctoral ideas are clearly connected to International Business and, where appropriate, to the research focus of the International Business team.
How to Apply for the University of Vienna PhD Position
Applications must be submitted through the University of Vienna’s job portal. Applicants should prepare their academic documents before starting the online application and make sure that all required materials are uploaded correctly. If you have any questions, please contact: Viktoria Kiss viktoria.kiss@univie.ac.at Univ.-Prof. Emmanuella Plakoyiannaki, PhD e.plakogiannaki@univie.ac.at
The application deadline is 27 October 2026. Candidates should avoid waiting until the final hours to submit their application because sufficient time may be needed to prepare the doctoral research proposal summary and complete the online application.
Step 1: Review the Position
Read the complete vacancy carefully and make sure your academic background, research interests, and professional experience correspond to the requirements for the University Assistant Predoctoral position.
Step 2: Prepare Your Academic CV
Prepare a scientific CV that clearly presents your Master’s degree, academic research experience, methodological training, publications if applicable, and other relevant academic activities.
Step 3: Prepare the Letter of Intent
The letter of intent should explain your motivation for applying and your interest in doctoral research in International Business. It should also demonstrate how your academic background connects with the research area of the position.
Step 4: Prepare Your Research Interests and Doctoral Project Ideas
Applicants should provide a summary of their research interests and ideas for a prospective doctoral project proposal. This is an important part of the application because the position involves developing and completing a PhD dissertation.
Step 5: Submit the Application Online
Complete the application through the University of Vienna job portal and upload the requested documents. The application must be submitted by 27 October 2026.
Application Deadline
The official application deadline is: 27 October 2026
The advertised start date is: 1 March 2027
Applicants interested in the position should make sure that their complete application reaches the university before the stated deadline.
Reference Number
The vacancy has the following reference number: 6215
Contact Information
Questions concerning the position can be directed to Viktoria Kiss at:
Applicants can also contact Univ.-Prof. Emmanuella Plakoyiannaki, PhD, through:
Candidates with questions about the application process or the academic research area should contact the appropriate person before the application deadline where necessary.
Equal Opportunities and Diversity
The University of Vienna states that it follows an anti-discriminatory employment policy and places importance on equal opportunities, the advancement of women, and diversity.
The university specifically emphasizes increasing the representation of women among academic and general university staff, particularly in leadership positions. The vacancy states that qualified women are expressly encouraged to apply and that, given equal qualifications, preference will be given to female candidates.
University of Vienna Predoctoral PhD Position 2027: Key Details
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| University | University of Vienna |
| Faculty | Faculty of Business, Economics and Statistics |
| Position | University Assistant Predoctoral |
| Research area | International Business |
| Reference number | 6215 |
| Start date | 1 March 2027 |
| Working hours | 30 hours per week |
| Initial employment period | 1.5 years |
| Potential employment duration | 4 years |
| Salary reference | EUR 3,776.10 full-time basis |
| Academic qualification | Completed Master’s degree |
| Preferred background | International Business, International Management, or Management with international emphasis |
| English requirement | C1 level |
| German | Desirable, but not required |
| Research methods | Qualitative and quantitative |
| Application deadline | 27 October 2026 |
| Location | Vienna, Austria |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the University of Vienna predoctoral position?
The position is a University Assistant Predoctoral (Prae Doc) role in the Faculty of Business, Economics and Statistics. The successful candidate will conduct doctoral research in International Business while also participating in research projects, teaching, administration, funding activities, and third mission work.
What is the research area of the PhD position?
The position is in International Business, with research interests including the internationalization of family firms, SMEs, and multinational enterprises. The research team uses both qualitative and quantitative methodological approaches.
What degree do I need to apply?
Applicants should have a completed Master’s degree in International Business, International Management, or the broader field of Management with an international emphasis. Candidates should also demonstrate an interest in pursuing doctoral research in International Business.
Is work experience required?
The vacancy emphasizes academic preparation, research-methods experience, and interest in doctoral research rather than specifying a particular number of years of professional work experience. Basic experience in academic writing and research methods is expected.
Is English required for this position?
Yes. Applicants should have an excellent command of written and spoken English at C1 level. Good knowledge of German is desirable but is not a prerequisite according to the vacancy.
Is knowledge of German mandatory?
No. The position description states that good command of German is desirable but not a prerequisite.
Which research software is useful for this PhD position?
Knowledge of qualitative research software such as ATLAS.ti or NVivo can be an advantage. Experience with quantitative tools such as SPSS or R is also beneficial, particularly because the research team uses both qualitative and quantitative approaches.
How many hours per week is the position?
The advertised working time is 30 hours per week.
What is the salary for the University of Vienna predoctoral position?
The vacancy lists a basic salary of EUR 3,776.10 on a full-time basis, with the possibility of an increase if professional experience can be credited. Since the position is advertised at 30 hours per week, applicants should consult the official employment terms for the remuneration applicable to the actual working arrangement.
How long is the employment contract?
The employment relationship is initially limited to 1.5 years. According to the vacancy, it is automatically extended to a total of four years if the employer does not terminate it within the first 12 months by submitting a non-extension declaration.
When does the position start?
The advertised start date is 1 March 2027.
What is the application deadline?
The application deadline is 27 October 2026. Applicants should submit all required documents through the University’s job portal before the deadline.
What documents are required?
Applicants should provide a scientific CV, letter of intent, summary of research interests and ideas for a prospective doctoral project proposal, and Master’s degree documentation. Additional requirements may be specified in the University’s online application system.
Do I need to already have a PhD proposal?
The vacancy asks applicants to submit a summary of research interests and ideas for a prospective doctoral project proposal. This means applicants should present a clear research direction or set of ideas rather than simply submitting a general statement of interest.
Will I be required to teach?
Yes. The successful candidate will hold courses independently within the scope of the applicable provisions of the collective bargaining agreement.
Will the position involve administrative work?
Yes. The role includes administrative tasks related to research, teaching, and administration. The successful candidate will also participate in funding activities and third mission work.
What is the third mission?
Third mission activities generally refer to ways universities engage with society and organizations beyond their traditional research and teaching functions. In this position, the successful candidate will lead or support third mission activities connected with the International Business research group.
Can international applicants apply?
The position is part of an international academic environment, and the vacancy specifies English at C1 level while stating that German is desirable but not required. International applicants should also ensure that they meet any applicable employment and residence requirements for working in Austria.
Where is the position located?
The position is based at the University of Vienna in Vienna, Austria. The university states that the workplace has good public transport connections.
Who can I contact about the vacancy?
Questions can be directed to Viktoria Kiss at viktoria.kiss@univie.ac.at or to Univ.-Prof. Emmanuella Plakoyiannaki, PhD, at e.plakogiannaki@univie.ac.at.
Discover more from Agristok
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.