Scientific Project Staff (m/f/d), SB26-0066

Universität für Weiterbildung Krems - Donau-Universität Krems

University for Continuing Education Krems

The University for Continuing Education Krems specializes in part-time academic continuing education. As a public university, it works with its expertise in teaching and research to overcome societal challenges. The university combines many years of experience in continuing academic education with innovation and the highest quality standards in research and teaching. Krems is located in the unique UNESCO World Heritage region of Wachau, 60 km from Vienna.

The following position is available to strengthen our team of the Department for Health Sciences, Medicine and Research at the Faculty of Health and Medicine:

Scientific Project Staff (m/f/d)

20 hrs./week

Advertisement No. SB26-0066

The position within the project CREST focuses on the characterisation of a specific enzyme activity present on chondrocyte-derived extracellular vesicles. The objective is to determine the contribution of EV-associated enzyme activity in cartilage formation in a tissue engineering setting for regenerative medicine. The lab is located at the Center for Regenerative Medicine at University for Continuing Education Krems and the project is supervised by Alexander Otahal PhD. The project duration is at least 6 months, prolongable to 12 months.

Your tasks

Culture of primary chondrocytes in different environments for extracellular vesicle release including static conditions as well as a dynamic bioreactor
Characterisation of cell phenotypes via PCR
Enrichment of extracellular vesicles via ultrafiltration and/or ultracentrifugation
Characterisation of extracellular vesicles via eg. nanoparticle tracking analysis, flow cytometry or Western Blot
Development of an assay to quantify enzymatic activity involving extracellular matrix

Your profile

We require evidence of the following qualifications for the application:

A completed university degree (Bachelor) in biology, molecular biology, biochemistry, or a related field (criterion must be met by April 30th, 2026, at latest)
Proficiency in basic cell culture and analytical methods, such as cell isolation from tissues, cell expansion, PCR, histology, flow cytometry and/or Western Blot
Excellent English language skills (minimum B2 level), demonstrated through valid English language certificates or assessed during the application interview

In addition, the following criteria are desirable:

Knowledge in extracellular vesicle research or cartilage regenerative medicine
Experience with (establishment of) enzymatic assays
Familiarity with statistical analysis techniques such as ANOVA, t-test and non-parametric equivalents
Strong problem-solving abilities and effective communication skills assessed during the application interview based on the applicant’s presentation and discussion afterwards
The ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a team, with a strong sense of responsibility
German language skills

Your perspective

Part-time position (20 hours/week) initially limited to 6 months, prolongable to 12 months
Minimum salary of EUR 2,759.20 gross per month (14x) on a full-time basis
Classification as a scientific project staff member according to § 49 VwGr. C, Kollektivvertrag für Universitäten (collective agreement for universities)
Innovative and modern working environment at the Campus Krems
Extensive benefits such as: very good further training opportunities as part of our own study programs, a wide range of company health promotion programs and the University Sports Institute (USI)

The University for Continuing Education Krems sees high innovation potential in the diversity of its employees and is committed to diversity as a guiding principle. We therefore explicitly invite people with disabilities and/or chronic illnesses who meet the required profile criteria to apply for the position.

Potential candidates will be ranked/categorized according to the skill profile, taking minimum requirements and desirable criteria into consideration. Therefore, fulfilling the required minimum qualifications only does not guarantee invitation to an application interview. Application interviews will be held preferably on site at the Center for Regenerative Medicine Krems, online interviews could be organised. Costs arising from traveling to the application interview will have to be covered by the applicant.

We look forward to receiving your online application by 29 April 2026 via our online tool:
https://www.donau-uni.ac.at/vacancies

Your application should include: