Senior Scientist (all genders)

TU Wien is looking for a committed person responsible for the Core Facilities Management, on the intersection of operational management and science-based development with the core-user group of the Optical Microscopy and Laser Spectroscopy Center.

This Center hosts state-of-the-art equipment including confocal microscopes, high-resolution and single-molecule imaging systems including a lattice-light sheet system, atomic force microscopes and mechanical testing devices, as well as Raman microscopes, nanoscale IR spectroscopy devices and a fluorescence sorting device. With this, it provides space, equipment and training, as well as a unique development platform for TU Wien research labs from various disciplines.

In this key role, you will be responsible for the efficient operation of this core facility and you will ensure that strategic goals are implemented operationally in close coordination with the Center’s Steering Committee.

Tasks:

Daily Operations

• Promote the facility internally and externally as a service-oriented, collaborative research hub
• Provide technical and administrative leadership for the operation and continuous development of the Center
• Ensure optimal equipment performance, user support, and compliance with operational policies and safety standards
• Provide training, teaching, consultation and technical support to users, including students and early-career researchers
• Initiate, execute, and manage contract research activities, including financial processing
• Train and manage facility personnel, fostering a service-oriented and collaborative team culture
• Exchange information and best practices with other core facilities

Center Management

• Contribute to strategic planning in close cooperation with the scientific leadership to translate the scientific vision into smooth, user-friendly workflows and services
• Manage the facility in close partnership with users, ensuring that procedures, infrastructure, and services support efficient, high-quality research:
  • • Co-develop, implement, and continuously refine operational policies and procedures together with users
    • Serve as a primary contact point for users, providing hands-on training, technical support, and guidance tailored to their experimental needs
    • Implement and maintain efficient systems for data storage and security, booking, and invoicing, with the goal of minimizing administrative burden for users
    • Oversee the upkeep, availability, and continuous improvement of supplies and equipment Oversee budget planning, resource allocation, and financial reporting in coordination with the Scientific Board.
• Collaborate with facility users to support their research projects, including participation in project planning and execution and the development of customized analysis tools or workflows
• Promote networking and exchange among facility users to foster collaboration, shared expertise, and joint funding applications

Research Development and Scientific Quality Assurance

• Implement and monitor quality standards, safety regulations, and documentation processes.
• Ensure compliance with safety regulations and university policies
• Stay informed about technological advancements and integrate innovative solutions where appropriate
• Enhance and support collaborative research projects with center users
• Secure third-party funding through academic-industrial cooperations
• Promote method development and technological advancements

Your profile:

• PhD degree in cell/molecular biology, biophysics, biomedical engineering or a closely related field
• Extensive technical expertise with advanced imaging techniques, including confocal and light sheet microscopy
• Experience in mechanical testing of biological samples (e.g. AFM microscopy or other mechanical probing devices)
• Strong expertise in image data analysis and experience in method or tool development
• Extensive experience in cell culture and microscopy sample preparation techniques (e.g. immunofluorescence, live cell labelling)
• Project management skills
• Proven experience in managing a research facility, including user training and support
• Ability to communicate with and understand the requirements of scientists from different disciplines
• Experience in support teaching cell-related courses and co-supervising students
• Strong team-working skills and ability to train and develop personnel
• Excellent time management and ability to prioritize
• International research experience across different institutions
• Excellent communication skills in English and good command of German
• A strong understanding of the Austrian scientific landscape in microscopy, established collaborations with research institutions in Vienna, prior interaction with microscopy instrument vendors and experience with flow cytometry will be considered as assets.

We offer:

• An innovative highly interdisciplinary environment
• A management position that allows self-reliant decision making
• New state-of-the-art equipment
• Excellent opportunities for personal development in a scientifically stimulating environment
• Flexible working hours, reconciling career and family, a range of according university services

Expected employment starting in March 2026, the position is associated within E0-57 „Core Facilities and Centers“ and entails a permanent contract. The gross monthly salary for the full-time (40h/week) Senior Scientist position is 5,014.30€. The salary and the terms of employment are set in accordance to the collective labor agreement of the Austrian Universities and trade union of public service.

The exact conditions, starting date and the salary will be agreed upon with the individual candidate. We look forward to receiving your application until April 9th, 2026.

Application documents:

• A motivation letter listing significant achievements, relevant experience referring to the description of this position and indicating preferred start date (no longer than 2 pages)
• CV, including education / internship / employment / publication record / mentoring activities
• 1-3 contact details of people who can provide a reference uploaded under the category: +add more documents