Postdoctoral Research Scholar - Governing habitability in a changing climate

• A PhD degree in human geography, environmental governance, political science, or a related social science discipline.
• Demonstrated experience in working on disaster risk reduction or/and climate adaptation.
• Strong command of qualitative methods, including policy analysis, semi-structured interviews, and focus group discussions.
• Hands-on fieldwork experience ideally in complex socio-environmental contexts
• Excellent written and spoken English, with a track record of academic writing and confident presentation skills.
• Knowledge of the language(s) of one or more case study countries (Italian, French, Spanish, or Greek) is an asset.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in an interdisciplinary international research environment.

The successful candidate should be available to take up the position as of 1st October 2026.

The place of work is IIASA in Laxenburg, near Vienna, Austria (home office options available).

The successful candidate will be appointed as a research scholar (R2) in accordance with the IIASA profiles for research careers.

We offer

• 3.5-year full-time fixed term contract (100%, 40 hrs/week) with the possibility of extension thereafter. Flexible arrangements on duration can be discussed.
• An attractive annual salary, exempt from income tax in Austria (subject to deductions for health insurance and/or social security), of at least EUR 55,215.00
• The possibility to contribute to environmental sciences for sustainability and global wellbeing.
• An international atmosphere and pleasant working environment in a historic market town surrounded by green areas.

IIASA salaries are:

• Not directly comparable with other employers in Austria, due to the unique legal status and privileges granted to IIASA.
• Subject to the principle of income aggregation (Progressionsvorbehalt in German).

additional BENEFITS

• Educational subsidies for children of school age enrolled in private schools in Austria.
• A generous annual leave entitlement.
• Relocation allowances and paid home leave for employees in scientific and professional categories who are hired from international locations.
• Assistance for newcomers to Austria with visa, work and residency permit applications.
• Support finding accommodation in Austria.

Further details here.

IIASA is committed to a working environment that promotes equality, diversity, tolerance and inclusion within its workforce. This is reflected in our IIASA core values. We encourage qualified candidates from all religious, ethnic, and social backgrounds to apply. In the case that candidates are equally qualified, preference will be given to applicants from countries where IIASA has a Member Organization.