The world is changing at an ever-faster pace. At the Johannes Kepler University Linz, we work on technologies and the ideas of tomorrow on a daily basis. At the same time, we educate over 25,500 young people to meet the demands of today’s job market. In short, we are Upper Austria’s largest institution for education and research. Are you interested in being a part of shaping the future of Austria’s most attractive campus university? We currently have a job opening for a:
Graduate Teaching Assistant (must hold a Diploma/Master's degree) for a 26-hour/week (part-time), four-year position
Organizational unit::
Universitätsklinik für Kinder- und Jugendheilkunde
Entry date::
01/02/2026
Job Reference Number::
61070-2025-001601
:
At the University Clinic for Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine at Johannes Kepler University Linz, a new research group has been established under the direction of Dr. Josephine Tauer in the tenure-track position “Mechanism Exploration of Rare Diseases,” which is dedicated to researching the molecular mechanisms of rare diseases. The group is based at the modern Center for Medical Research and offers an inspiring environment for scientific work.
To further develop this research group, we are seeking a highly motivated and dedicated university assistant with a completed diploma or master's degree (PhD student). The position requires a commitment of 26 hours per week, with the potential for increased hours upon successful acquisition of third-party funding.
Our research focuses on investigating the systemic effects of rare connective tissue disorders, particularly osteogenesis imperfecta, on various organ systems (such as the gastrointestinal tract) during childhood and adolescence. Using state-of-the-art in vitro, ex vivo, and preclinical models, we aim to characterize the underlying disease mechanisms at different developmental stages. The insights gained will contribute to a deeper understanding of the pathophysiology and, in the long term, support the development of innovative therapeutic strategies.
To further develop this research group, we are seeking a highly motivated and dedicated university assistant with a completed diploma or master's degree (PhD student). The position requires a commitment of 26 hours per week, with the potential for increased hours upon successful acquisition of third-party funding.
Our research focuses on investigating the systemic effects of rare connective tissue disorders, particularly osteogenesis imperfecta, on various organ systems (such as the gastrointestinal tract) during childhood and adolescence. Using state-of-the-art in vitro, ex vivo, and preclinical models, we aim to characterize the underlying disease mechanisms at different developmental stages. The insights gained will contribute to a deeper understanding of the pathophysiology and, in the long term, support the development of innovative therapeutic strategies.
Job Duties::
- Application of molecular genetic, protein biochemical, metabolic, cell biological, immunological, and histological methods (e.g., cloning, qRT-PCR, Western blot, histology, immunoassays, flow cytometry, µCT)
- Conducting and analyzing in vitro and ex vivo experiments as well as functional assays
- Isolation and cultivation of primary cells from tissue biopsies (e.g., skin, bone)
- Preparation, processing, and analysis of tissue sections
- Experimental work with preclinical models
- Development and establishment of new experimental techniques and research strategies
- Independent research activities with precise documentation of experiments
- Preparation, statistical analysis, and interpretation of scientific data
- Contribution to publications in international peer-reviewed journals, scientific reports, and completion of the PhD thesis
- Presentation of research results at national and international conferences
- Close collaboration with researchers at the Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, the Center for Medical Research, and international partners
- Support in acquiring third-party funding and in supervising students
- Contribution to teaching activities
Your Qualifications::
- The successful candidate must hold a completed diploma or master's degree in molecular biology, biology, biochemistry, or comparable qualification
- Solid knowledge of common molecular and cell biological methods (e.g., expression, purification, and characterization of DNA, RNA, and proteins; Western blot; histology; qRT-PCR; cell culture including primary cell lines and 3D models; immunoassays; immunohistochemistry; flow cytometry; in vivo µCT)
- Initial experience with preclinical models is an advantage
- Initial experience in the preparation of histological sections is an advantage
- Basic knowledge in data analysis and statistics (e.g., SPSS, R, GraphPad Prism)
- Willingness to learn, optimize, and establish new methods
- Independent, reliable, and accurate working style combined with enthusiasm for working in an interdisciplinary and international team
- Strong motivation to present and publish scientific findings
- Very good knowledge of German and English (at least B2 level), both written and spoken
What We Offer::
- On the basis of full-time employment (40 hours/week) the minimum salary in accordance with the collective agreement is € 3,714.80 gross per month (14 x per year, CA Job Grade: B1)
- Stable employer
- Attractive campus environment with good public transportation connections
- Attractive continual educational opportunities
- State-of-the-art research infrastructure
- Dynamic research environment
- Exercise and sports classes (USI)
- …and much more
Application Deadline::
11/05/2025
:
The Johannes Kepler University wishes to increase the proportion of academic female faculty and, for this reason, especially welcomes applications by qualified women. If applicants are equally qualified, a woman will be given preference for this position. The university welcomes applications from qualified applicants with disabilities. These applications will be given special consideration.
Contact::
If you have questions, please contact: Yang Maier, P +43 732 2468 8890, E-mail: yang.maier@jku.at.
Exertion place address:
Krankenhausstraße
26-30,
4020
Linz