Summary
The Department of Behavioral and Cognitive Biology at the University of Vienna is seeking a full-time Postdoctoral University Assistant to join the research group led by Prof. Narly Golestani. The role focuses on cutting-edge research in the cognitive neuroscience of language, multilingualism, and spatial cognition, alongside teaching and departmental administrative duties.
Postdoctoral University Assistant – Department of Behavioral and Cognitive Biology, University of Vienna, Austria
Designation
- Position: University Assistant Postdoctoral
- Classification (CBA): §48 VwGr. B1 lit. b (postdoc)
- Job ID: 5966
Key Information Overview
| Parameter | Details |
| Employer | University of Vienna |
| Faculty / Department | Faculty of Life Sciences / Department of Behavioral and Cognitive Biology |
| Research Group | Prof. Narly Golestani |
| Position Type | Full-Time (40.00 hours/week) |
| Contract Duration | Fixed-term (01.12.2026 – 30.06.2029) |
| Gross Monthly Salary | €5,014.30 (14 times per year, full-time basis) |
| Application Deadline | October 23, 2026 |
Research Area
Cognitive neuroscience focusing on language, multilingualism, and spatial cognition using advanced neuroimaging techniques.
- Cognitive Neuroscience of Language & Multilingualism
- Spatial Cognition & Spatial Grids: Investigating entorhinal cortex-based spatial grids and cognitive maps.
- Neuroimaging Analysis: Advanced fMRI (grid-like responses, resting-state connectivity) and structural MRI data analysis.
Location
- City: Vienna, Austria (Central campus with public transport connections)
Eligibility / Qualifications
Educational Requirements
- Background in Biomedical Engineering.
- Completed Doctoral/PhD degree in Natural Sciences/Life Sciences (Dissertation field: Biology, focused on brain function and structure, ideally related to multilingualism and memory).
Technical & Research Skills
- Strong track record and experience in advanced analysis of functional (fMRI) and structural MRI data.
- Expertise in neuroimaging pipelines and toolboxes: SPM-Toolbox, FSL, Freesurfer, fMRIPrep, CONN-Toolbox.
- Experience in analyzing grid-like responses in the entorhinal cortex and resting-state connectivity.
- Coding Proficiency: Python, MATLAB, R, Linux/Bash, SPSS, JASP.
Language & Personal Skills
- English & German: High proficiency (at least C1 level preferred; B1 minimum).
- French: Good proficiency preferred (at least B2 level).
- Strong interpersonal, team-player, and communication skills.
Job Description & Responsibilities
- Research Development: Develop and strengthen an independent research profile, participate in group projects, and publish findings in international journals.
- Teaching & Mentorship: Deliver university-level teaching according to collective bargaining agreement guidelines and supervise students.
- Administrative Duties: Support department, teaching, and research administration tasks.
- Quality & Evaluation: Participate in departmental quality assurance and evaluation processes.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should apply online via the official university career portal by submitting the following documents:
- Motivation Letter: Max. 2 pages, including a summary of research interests and contact details for three professional references.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV): Scientific CV including a complete list of publications.
- Certificates: Proof of completed doctoral studies (PhD certificate).
- Direct Contact for Inquiries: Prof. Narly Golestani (narly.golestani@univie.ac.at)
Last Date to Apply
October 23, 2026
