A Senior Scientist - Design History and Theory

Application deadline: 22.01.2026 - 01.02.2026


The University of Applied Arts Vienna is seeking a Senior Scientist (m/f/d, 40 hours per week, maternity leave replacement, fixed-term contract until 30.09.2026) starting as soon as possible in the department Design History and Theory.

 

Applicants should have:

·      MA in design theory or related subject

·      PhD in design theory or related field

·      Proven knowledge of cutting-edge methods and theories in design theory/ design anthropology  

·      Research profile with an emphasis on global/international design 

·      Prior experience working in third-party funded international research projects

·      excellent written and spoken German and English skills

 

Areas of responsibility:

·      Delivering cutting-edge teaching modules in design history/theory

·      FWF research 

·      Organization and support in departmental administration (social media, supervision) 

·      Administrative support for the Papanek Foundation

·      Research and archival support within the Papanek Foundation

 

Advantage / Desirable:

·      Social competence and the ability to work in a team 

·      Proven ambition in the field of design history/theory at an international level 

·      Proven self-motivation in highest level international research

 

The monthly minimum wage for the position is currently € 3.776,10 gross (14 times a year, based on 40 hours per week) and can be increased accordingly by taking into account job-specific previous experience in accordance with the collective agreement for universities (B1, salary scheme for academic/artistic university staff).

 

Qualified applicants should submit their written application with a letter of intent and CV by February 1, 2026 via our online application platform. Applications submitted otherwise will unfortunately not be considered.

 

The University of Applied Arts pursues an anti-discriminatory recruitment policy and, as an employer, stands for equal opportunities and diversity. We aim to increase the proportion of women among artistic, academic and general university staff, particularly in management positions, and therefore explicitly encourage qualified women to apply. In case of underrepresentation, women with equal suitability are prioritized.

 

The University of Applied Arts welcomes applications from people with disabilities.

 

We regret to inform you that applicants are not entitled to compensation for travelling and accommodation expenses.