Professor of Mechanisms of Adaptation

Job Description

The Professor of Mechanisms of Adaptation addresses how fundamental biological processes are shaped by external environmental factors. The successful candidate will employ advanced and state-of-the-art research approaches to reveal complex interactions and adaptive mechanisms in nature at the organismal level. The position complements the core research areas of the Department of Biology, particularly in the area of zoology and in disciplines of evolutionary biology, animal physiology, neurobiology and molecular ecology. The primary focus of this professorship is the experimental investigation of the molecular mechanisms underlying adaptations. This includes, but is not limited to, the elucidation of molecular, physiological, and/or developmental processes by which animals adapt to diverse environmental conditions. An organismal research perspective with an emphasis on aquatic systems is preferred. The successful candidate is expected to pursue an experimentally driven research programme employing approaches from developmental biology, physiology, and/or genetics. The post holder will contribute to teaching within the bachelor’s and master’s programmes supported by the Department, particularly, though not exclusively, in the areas of zoology and developmental biology. Active collaboration with research groups in the Department of Biology, as well as integration in institutional research networks (including the University’s fields of excellence and doctoral training consortia), is expected.

Employment Requirements

• Austrian or equivalent foreign higher education degree corresponding with the position (doctorate/PhD)
• Habilitation or equivalent qualification in zoology
• 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)
• Success in attracting subject-specific project grants, particularly where competitively awarded third-party funds are concerned
• Skills in higher education didactics including the use of digital media
• Skills in the supervision and guidance of early career researchers
• Professional experience abroad during academic career
• Management and leadership experience
• Gender mainstreaming and diversity management skills
• Good knowledge of English. Furthermore, the successful candidate is expected to teach lessons in German within three years

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.

Application Documents

• Letter of application
• Curriculum vitae with a description of your academic career
• List of publications, numbered, with a complete bibliographic information, sorted by
  • monographs
  • (co-)edited volumes
  • journal articles
  • other information
• Presentation of teaching to date
• List of previous research projects and collaborations
• Description of future research intentions
• List of your five most important publications

Please submit your application documents in English.

We Offer

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 € 93,986.20 gross per year. Salary subject to negotiation.

Hearings

Planned dates of the applicant`s presentation: 24.11.2026 - 25.11.2026

About us

At the University of Graz, researchers and students work across a broad disciplinary spectrum to enlarge our knowledge, and find strategies to deal with challenges our society is confronted with and to shape tomorrow’s world. The University of Graz is a place which combines high quality academic research and teaching, where achievement is rewarded, careers are promoted, and social diversity is encouraged – all within a modern, award-winning working environment. Our motto: We work for tomorrow. Join us!

Contact

Univ.-Prof. DI Dr. Sefc ([email protected])

The University of Graz is committed to increasing the proportion of female employees, especially in leadership roles. We therefore encourage qualified female colleagues in particular to apply for this position. In case of equal qualifications, women will receive priority consideration.

Please note that in order to comply with the applicable data protection regulations, we can only accept applications via our web-based applicant tool for this vacant position.