Position of tenure-track professorship in Molecular Plant Genetics in the division of Plant Physiology at the Department of Biology

Job Description

Initially the successful candidate starts as an Assistant Professor with a qualification agreement for a fixed term tenure phase of six years. After successful completion of the qualification goals, the position will be converted into a permanent Associate Professor position.

The tenure-track professorship in Molecular Plant Genetics is located within the division of Plant Physiology at the Department of Biology, University of Graz, and strengthens the university’s fields of excellence “Climate Change Graz” or “COLIBRI – Complexity of Life in Basic Research and Innovation.”

The professorship’s research focuses on fundamental studies in the molecular biology and genetics of plants, particularly the regulation of growth, development and adaptation processes under variable environmental conditions. By applying modern molecular, genetic, biochemical and functional approaches, the professorship will contribute to a deeper understanding of plant regulatory mechanisms and their significance for ecological and biotechnological research questions.

In teaching, the professorship will play a central role in education and training in botany, plant physiology, and molecular biology at bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral levels, including teacher training in biology and environmental studies. It promotes the integration of research-based and experimental teaching formats, strengthens interdisciplinary training within the NAWI Graz framework and supports early-stage researchers through active involvement in ongoing research projects. Through its thematic focus and networking function, the professorship will make an important contribution to the strategic development of functional plant biology and to enhancing the international visibility of the University of Graz in the field of life sciences.

Employment Requirements

• Austrian or equivalent foreign higher education degree corresponding with the position (doctorate/PhD) in the field of natural sciences
• Outstanding academic qualifications in research and teaching in the relevant discipline and for the profile of the professorship (commensurate with stage of academic career and interruptions in employment due to caring responsibilities)
• Several years of experience as post-doc or in a similar position
• Skills in attracting subject-specific project grants
• Skills in higher education didactics including the use of digital media
• Gender mainstreaming and diversity management skills
• Professional experience abroad during academic career (highly preferred)
• Good knowledge of English; good knowledge of German highly preferred
• International experience in presenting papers and delivering lectures
• Work on the development agreement to be concluded with objectives in research, teaching and administration
• Research with focus on functional biology of higher plants, applying modern experimental molecular, genetic, cell biological, biochemical and/or physiological methods
• Independent teaching of courses and supervision of academic theses within the relevant subject areas
• Contribution to the university’s fields of excellence “Climate Change Graz” or “COLIBRI – Complexity of Life in Basic Research and Innovation”

The successful candidate will be highly motivated, aiming for academic excellence and integrity in research and teaching. He/she will have demonstrated ability to collaborate constructively in a responsible manner and inspire colleagues and students in an interdisciplinary, internationally oriented context.

We offer a diverse, challenging, team-oriented working environment and a high degree of personal responsibility. Working hours are flexible and there are many options for further education and personal development.

The minimum remuneration as stated in the Collective Bargaining Agreement is € 82,656.00 gross per year after signing the Qualification Agreement.

Application Documents

• Letter of application
• Curriculum Vitae
• List of publications, numbered, with a complete bibliographic information, sorted by
  • monographs
  • (co-)edited volumes
  • journal articles
  • other information
• Submission of the three most important publications
• Presentation of any teaching and lecturing activities
• Presentation of any previous research projects and collaborations
• Exposé of future plans and goals in the field of research

Please submit your application documents in English.

Hearings

Planned dates of the applicant`s presentation: 02.06.2026 – 03.06.2026

Contact

Univ.-Prof. Dr. Tomas Werner (tomas.werner@uni-graz.at)

Institute Website