Predoctoral Research Assistant

About the Role

The University of Vienna's Faculty of Psychology is seeking a dedicated University Assistant Predoctoral to join our dynamic Cognitive Psychology research group within the Department of Cognition, Emotion, and Methods in Psychology. This is an exceptional opportunity to pursue doctoral research in an internationally recognized academic environment while contributing to cutting-edge investigations in human perception, attention, and related cognitive processes.

As part of our vibrant academic community of nearly 11,000 individuals, you'll join a faculty that serves approximately 3,500 psychology students across Bachelor's, Master's, and PhD programs. Our department is committed to providing comprehensive support and supervision to ensure your successful completion of a PhD thesis through innovative research methodologies.

Key Responsibilities
Research & Doctoral Studies:

• Conduct independent research in visual attention, perception, eye-tracking, and related cognitive domains to advance your doctoral dissertation
• Design, program, and execute behavioral experiments with human participants using state-of-the-art laboratory equipment and online platforms
• Collect and analyze complex datasets, including electroencephalographic (EEG) and eye-tracking data
• Develop experimental paradigms as web applications for remote data collection
• Prepare and submit research findings to ISI-listed, peer-reviewed journals for publication
• Complete a cumulative dissertation based on at least three manuscripts, with one accepted for publication prior to thesis submission
• Finalize dissertation agreement within 12-18 months of appointment
• Enroll in the Vienna Doctoral School in Cognition, Behavior and Neuroscience (VDS CoBeNe)

Teaching & Academic Service:

• Independently conduct undergraduate and graduate courses within collective bargaining agreement provisions
• Supervise student research projects and provide academic mentorship
• Contribute to curriculum development and pedagogical innovation
• Utilize e-learning platforms and modern teaching methodologies

Administrative Duties:

• Support departmental research initiatives and collaborative projects
• Participate in faculty meetings, committees, and academic governance
• Assist with grant applications and research project management
• Contribute to laboratory maintenance and equipment calibration

Requirements
Essential Qualifications:

• Completed Master's degree or Diploma in Psychology, Biology, Computer Science, or Linguistics
• Demonstrated computational expertise in multiple programming languages and analytical tools
• Strong proficiency in Python (numpy, pandas, scikit-learn, PyTorch), R (Tidyverse), or Julia
• Experience with statistical analysis software and research methodologies
• Academic writing experience and familiarity with scientific publication processes
• Fluency in both English and German (C1 level English required)
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills

Technical Skills:

• Proficiency in JavaScript/HTML/CSS, Docker, GNU/Linux, SQL, JASP, and LaTeX
• Experience with neuroimaging analysis tools (Nipype/Nilearn, FSL, SPM, Freesurfer)
• Knowledge of Microsoft Office suite and academic software platforms
• Ability to develop and deploy web-based experimental applications

Desirable Qualifications:

• Previous experience with EEG recording and analysis
• Eye-tracking methodology expertise
• Background in perception, memory, or language research
• Didactic experience and e-learning competencies
• Demonstrated problem-solving abilities and autonomous working style
• Interest in emerging interdisciplinary research fields

What We Offer
Professional Development:

• Comprehensive supervision and mentorship for doctoral studies
• Access to over 600 internal training courses and coaching programs
• Opportunity to work with cutting-edge research equipment and methodologies
• International collaborative research opportunities
• Career guidance and academic networking support

Work Environment:

• Flexible, family-friendly working arrangements including remote/hybrid options
• Part-time work opportunities upon agreement
• Inspiring international academic atmosphere
• Healthy and fair working environment promoting work-life balance
• Modern facilities in central Vienna with excellent public transportation access

Employment Terms:

• 30-hour weekly position with competitive compensation
• 3-year initial contract (Predoc Contract Model 1: initially 1.5 years, automatically extended to 3 years if not terminated within first 12 months)
• Possibility of extension to maximum 4 years based on satisfactory progress
• Comprehensive benefits package and professional development support

Equal Opportunity Commitment:

The University of Vienna champions diversity, equal opportunities, and the advancement of women in academia. We particularly encourage applications from qualified women candidates and are committed to anti-discriminatory employment practices.