OeAW - Discovering the future

As a central non-university institution for science and research, the Austrian Academy of Sciences - OeAW has the task of "promoting science in every respect". Founded in 1847 as a learned society, it now has over 760 members and around 1,800 employees dedicated to innovative basic research, interdisciplinary knowledge exchange and the dissemination of new insights. The OeAW initiates and maintains partnerships worldwide and represents Austria in international scientific organizations; it cooperates with numerous institutions in the scientific field in order to actively shape the research landscape.

Principal Researcher (f/m/x) with Tenure Option - Japanese Studies

Job ID: IKGA027PR126

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

Principal Researcher (f/m/x) with Tenure Option
in Premodern Japanese Studies with a Focus on Buddhism
(40 hours per week, 100%)

The IKGA is an internationally recognized center for Buddhist Studies, with current research activities centered in South Asian, Tibetan and Chinese Studies. With this position, the Institute is seeking to strengthen and expand its expertise in East Asian Studies.

Your Tasks

  • To conduct independent and innovative research on Buddhism in Japan – its doctrines, practices and/or institutions –, with research questions in the history of religion, cultural history, the history of philosophy and/or intellectual history (any of these perspectives is welcome)
  • To actively apply for competitive third party-funded projects supporting junior scholars and engage in mentoring activities
  • To provide expertise in support of other research projects at the Institute;
  • To contribute to the development of the Institute’s publication series
  • To engage in comparative and/or transcultural research within the Cluster of Excellence “EurAsian Transformations“
  • To participate in the (co-)organization of academic events at the Institute, and in various activities within the Cluster of Excellence “EurAsian Transformations“, including public outreach activities 

Your Profile

  • Completed PhD or equivalent doctoral degree in Japanese Studies, East Asian Studies, Buddhist Studies, or a related field
  • Extensive knowledge of Japanese history and culture, and in-depth knowledge of Buddhism in Japan
  • Excellent knowledge of modern and premodern forms of Japanese; excellent knowledge of other relevant Buddhist transmission languages, especially classical Chinese; excellent command of English; knowledge of German is desirable
  • Record of international publications and lectures corresponding to career level and considering relevant factors, including career breaks; completion of at least one monograph; an international network
  • Flexibility, strong communication skills, creativity, and ability to work in a team.   
  • Knowledge of methods and tools in Digital Humanities pertinent to the chosen research focus is desirable.

Our Offer

The position will initially be awarded for one year, with a subsequent extension for five more years anticipated. A tenure evaluation by external experts is planned for the fourth year of the entire contract term.

The minimum annual gross salary for this position is EUR 76.952,12 (full-time based), in accordance with the collective agreement of the Austrian Academy of Sciences (ÖAW). Funds for conference and research travel, as well as for the organization of academic events, are available.

Please upload your application materials, no later than May 15, 2026. Application materials should include a cover letter, curriculum vitae, list of publications, and an outline of current and planned research (2-3 pages) for the period of six years; names of two references.

For inquiries about this position please contact: office.ikga@oeaw.ac.at.

APPLY NOW Click this link to apply for the job.

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. The OeAW cooperates with NEBA and is a member of MyAbility in order to provide appropriate workplace structures, in particular for persons with disabilities.

Contact

Alexandra Wedekind  |  Alexandra.Wedekind@oeaw.ac.at
IKGA | 1010 Vienna, Austria
Österreichische Akademie der Wissenschaften | Austrian Academy of Sciences | https://www.oeaw.ac.at/