At the Austrian Academy of Sciences (OeAW), the largest non-university institution for basic research in Austria, the Institute for the Cultural and Intellectual History of Asia (IKGA) is seeking to fill a

PhD Student Position (f/m/x)

(part-time, 30h per week)

within the framework of the Cluster of Excellence „EurAsian Transformations – Resources of the Past and the Challenge of Diversity“, funded by the Austrian Science Fund FWF for the period of 2023–2028. The Cluster involves more than 30 researchers from four academic institutions (Austrian Academy of Sciences, University of Vienna, Central European Uni- versity, University of Innsbruck). We explore major problems of current research – diversity, mobility, identity – in histor- ical perspective using original-language sources, and analyse cultural and religious, economic and political connections comparatively. We strive for a fruitful interdisciplinary dialogue and seek cooperation with the regions involved in order to create new academic infrastructures in Austria and internationally and to promote plurilateral research perspectives. EurAsia explores the transformation processes of Eurasia – understood as the entire landmass of both continents, Europe and Asia – from antiquity to the present.

The PhD student position is assigned to research on religion and identity, specifically on strategies of identification and distinction by focusing on religio-philosophical discourse of late medieval Indian Buddhism. The successful candidate will pursue a dissertation at the University of Vienna, internationally renowned for its strong track-record in South Asian, Tibetan and Buddhist Studies, while being integrated in a research institute of the Austrian Academy of Sciences that is an internationally known center in these fields, with particular strengths in the study of Indian Buddhist philosophy. Doctoral students already enrolled at this university may also apply. Within the larger environment of the Cluster, the position offers the opportunity to link focused research in Buddhist Studies to larger questions in the humanities, to develop research in continuous interdisciplinary exchange and to thereby develop a broader outlook on the area of study. Opportunities for training in career-relevant skills are available.

Your tasks:

• Pursuing a dissertation project of your choice within the above-sketched area at the University of Vienna
• Engaging in interdisciplinary collaboration and dialogue within the COE, especially in comparative research with Medieval Studies of Europe
• Actively participating in the COE’s activities in the domains of research, training and knowledge transfer
• International publication and presentation activities
• Assisting with the organization of academic events

Your profile:

• Completed MA in Indology, Classical South Asian Studies or a related field, outstanding MA thesis
• Excellent knowledge of Sanskrit and other research languages relevant to the outlined project; excellent knowledge of English; knowledge of German is desirable; willingness to acquire working knowledge of German required
• Flexibility, strong communication skills, creativity, ability to work in a team
• Openness for interdisciplinary collaboration and dialogue

The position is awarded on a fixed-term basis for 3 years for an annual gross salary of € 37.773,33, paid out conditional on proof of enrolment at the University of Vienna. The earliest possible starting date is October 01st, 2024, but the starting date is flexible. Supervision arrangements depend on the chosen focus; further information on supervision can be provided upon e-mail request to Prof. Birgit Kellner, PhD (birgit.kellner[at]oeaw.ac.at).

Application materials including a cover letter, curriculum vitae, an outline of the dissertation project (2-3 pages) and a supporting letter by the prospective main supervisor should be emailed as one PDF document and without further attach- ments to office.ikga[at]oeaw.ac.at (subject „Application COE Doc IKGA“) by August 31st, 2024.

The Austrian Academy of Sciences (OeAW) pursues a non-discriminatory employment policy and values equal opportunities, as well as diversity. Individuals from underrepresented groups are particularly encouraged to apply.