University Assistant Post-Doc (all genders)

At the Institute of Chemical Technologies and Analytics, in the Research Group for Applied Solid State Chemistry TU Wien is offering a position as university assistant (post-doc) limited expected 6 years for 40 hours/week. Expected start: January 2026.

The group of Prof. Thomas Sheppard is active at the interface of chemistry, chemical engineering, and physics. We combine fundamental and applied research in the field of heterogeneous catalysis, with the development of advanced characterisation tools based on spectroscopy, diffraction, and imaging. Research using synchrotron radiation (X-rays) and other large-scale facilities is an important component of our work. Activities are focused on designing, characterising, and improving catalytic systems and other functional materials. This comes from applying in situ / operando methods to study systems at work, as well as spatially-resolved methods to cross the pressure and scale gap between model laboratory based systems and industrial applications. As an inclusive and cross-disciplinary group, we welcome motivated students and researchers from a broad range of scientific backgrounds.

Tasks:

• Develop advanced spatially-resolved characterisation methods based on X-ray diffraction tomography and/or hyperspectral X-ray imaging
• Participate in measurement campaigns internationally at synchrotron light sources and other large-scale research facilities
• Develop broad personal competence in characterisation of functional materials
• Actively participate in, and initiate, research collaborations within the faculty and on (inter)national level
• Collect, treat, and interpret research data effectively and efficiently according to FAIR principles
• Participate in teaching and supervision of students
• Participate in scientific events, including national and international conferences, workshops, etc.
• Participate in organizational and administrative tasks of the research division and the faculty

Your profile:

• Completed PhD in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Physics, Materials Science
• Clear motivation for pursuing postdoctoral research and the relevance of this to your future career
• Background in synchrotron radiation and the related research environment
• Research experience in at least one of the following areas: X-ray microscopy and tomography (especially w/ synchrotron radiation); X-ray diffraction and/or total scattering (especially combined w/ X-ray imaging); X-ray spectroscopy (especially combined w/ X-ray imaging); computational microscopy (incl. ptychography, coherent diffraction microscopy)
• Knowledge of scientific programming (e.g. Python, R, MATLAB) or willingness to learn
• Interest in research management, assisting with teaching, working with students, and managing data
• Experience in national or international research cooperation within interdisciplinary fields, especially at synchrotron light sources, is an advantage
• Fluent in English (level B2 or C1) with strong communication skills and team competences
• Knowledge of German is not a requirement but willingness to learn is an advantage. Working language of the group is English.

We offer:

• 6 year postdoc position with considerable job stability and the potential to develop towards an independent research career
• Effective mentoring and guidance within the research project
• Opportunity for further training and development, targeted towards achieving your specified career goals
• Working group which values individual ideas, while encouraging collaborative teamwork to solve scientific problems
• Interesting and interdisciplinary work environment, with the opportunity to regularly participate in experiment campaigns at large-scale international research centres (synchrotron light sources)
• Opportunity to actively participate in research-led teaching, organisation of workshops/schools, and other relevant academic administration
• A range of attractive social benefits (see Fringe-Benefits)
• Central location of workplace as well as good accessibility (U1/U2/U4 Karlsplatz)

Entry level salary is determined by the pay grade B1 of the Austrian collective agreement for university staff. This is a minimum of currently EUR 4,932.90/month gross, 14 times/year for 40 hours/week. Relevant working experiences may increase the monthly income.

We look forward to receiving your application until October 30th, 2025.