Department of Biosciences and Medical Biology at the Faculty of Natural and Life Sciences, University of Salzburg

University Professorship – § 99 (1) Universities Act 2002

„Developmental Biology“


Planned start date: 1 March 2027 or earliest possible date

The Department is looking for applicants with international standing, a strong research background, and the potential to establish and sustainably develop innovative and competitive areas of focus in modern developmental biology. This call for applications is particularly aimed at outstanding researchers at an early stage of their careers. The research profile is deliberately interdisciplinary and is supposed to integrate molecular, cellular, organismic and evolutionary approaches, with a clear focus on issues relevant to humans at the interface between biomedical research, health and disease.

Outstanding research activities with international relevance are expected in the field of developmental biology, e.g. addressing spatio-temporal gene regulation dynamics, cell-cell interactions, pattern formation, and stem cell and regenerative biology.

Forward-looking, technology-driven approaches (e.g. organ-on-chip, bioprinting, organoid cultures, 3D biology, etc.) as well as modern imaging and omics-based methods are particularly welcome. The successful candidate will be expected to contribute to teaching, supervise final-year dissertations, and play an active role in existing and future research networks at the University and in Salzburg.

A professorship at the University of Salzburg stands for forward-looking research, committed teaching and social responsibility. It includes independent and collaborative academic work, the acquisition of third-party funding, the management of teams and the publication of research results. Professors encourage early-career scientists, value interdisciplinarity, organise third mission activities and are involved in university committees and internationalisation. With a sense of responsibility, integrity and innovative strength, they shape a respectful working environment and promote scientific, technological and social developments.

Required qualifications
considering academic age and individual career path

  • PhD in a relevant biology or another relevant biomedical discipline;
  • relevant habilitation (venia docendi/venia legendi) or equivalent academic qualification;
  • profound knowledge in classical developmental biology, animal reproductive biology, experimental cell and animal models, and molecular analysis of cellular and organismic developmental processes, as well as cross-disciplinary technologies in developmental biology;
  • proven independent academic research and publication activity, as well as experience in implementing third-party projects, science management and university-level teaching;
  • national and/or international networking, ideally with active participation in interdisciplinary collaborations;
  • experience in university self-administration and ability to provide strategic and responsible leadership;
  • the University of Salzburg expects the successful candidate to acquire German skills that will enable them to teach in Bachelor’s degree programmes and participate actively in university committees within three years.

 

Desired skills
considering academic age and individual career path

  • Proven external (outside the University of Salzburg) academic activity, preferably abroad, minimum 1 year;
  • social skills for staff and student development and collaboration, awareness of DEI issues, and the ability to lead teams in an inspiring way, implement strategic goals, and foster a cooperative, appreciative work culture;
  • digital skills in dealing with contemporary technologies und their application;
  • teaching experience in in the field of experimental developmental biology (for the development of a practical, experimental zoological laboratory course on ‘developmental biology’ compatible with the range of optional modules offered within biology curricula);
  • experience with both traditional and modern techniques, experimental methods and innovative technologies applicable in developmental biology, e.g. 3D biology, organ-on-chip, bioprinting etc.

 

Application
your application includes the following documents as one PDF:

  • application form (Download);
  • letter of motivation and concept for planned research, teaching and third mission activities;
  • curriculum vitae including
    – description of research achievements (particularly third party projects and selected key publications);
    – description of experience and activities in teaching (and, if applicable, supervision/mentoring experience); including course evaluations and teaching certificates, if available;
    – description of third mission activities;
    – description of social and digital skills;
  •  list of publications and presentations;
  • proof of relevant university degrees;
  • presentation of connection and integration opportunities regarding potential teaching and research involvement within the Department of Biosciences and Medical Biology and in Salzburg in general.

If necessary, submission of additional documents (e.g. relevant publications) may be requested.

Deadline for applications: 30. September 2026

Applications should be addressed to the Head of the University (“Rektor”), Univ.-Prof. Dr. Bernhard Fügenschuh.
E-Mail:
Subject: 2026_18_991

We regret that expenses for travel and accommodation incurred in the job application cannot be refunded.

The University of Salzburg seeks to increase the proportion of women in academic and administrative areas and therefore encourages female candidates to apply. Considering the respective biography women will be given preference over equally qualified men.

People with disabilities or chronic illnesses who fulfil the job requirements are also expressly invited to apply.

If you have any questions about accessibility and support during the application process, please contact the Family, Gender, Diversity & Disability team at +43 662 8044-2462 or .

Salary
The University hires professors on a fixed term according to the Austrian Universities Act (“Universitätsgesetz”), the Austrian Salaried Employees Act (“Angestelltengesetz”) and the Collective Bargaining Agreement for University Employees (“Kollektivvertrag für die Arbeitnehmer*innen der Universitäten”).

Salary schedule: A1Duration of contract: 5 yearsThe basis of salary negotiations is the required legal minimum of € 93,986.20 gross.

Contact
For further information, please contact Prof. Günter Lepperdinger at / +43 662 8044 5739 and Prof. Fritz Aberger (Head of Deaprtment) at / +43 662 8044 5792.

Please note that in case of doubt, the German version of the job advertisement is binding.