Post-Doc Position University of Vienna 2026-2032

6 years full-time contract starting in September 2026

Research topic: motivation psychology, social psychology

The Motivation Psychology Lab at the University of Vienna is searching for a post-doc researcher. Our lab provides a diverse and international research environment dedicated to integrating multiple theoretical and methodological perspectives to address fundamental psychological questions in the field of motivation. We are looking for a collaborator with an interest and experience in investigating basic processes of motivation, self-regulation, and effort mobilization. The ideal candidate will have experience in research and teaching in the field of motivation psychology, social psychology, or psychophysiology. Furthermore, applicants should bring a sound knowledge of quantitative and experimental research methodology, statistics and experiment programming software, as well as excellent knowledge of spoken and written English. Tasks include scientific research and teaching in the field of motivation psychology, as well as administrative tasks at the department and faculty.
 
Job description:

• integration into the motivation psychology lab (headed by Veronika Job) in research, teaching, and administration
• participation in research projects on the role of basic processes of motivation, self-regulation, and effort mobilization
• international publications and presentations
• responsibility for project applications and the acquisition of third-party funding
• independent implementation of teaching
• active student support
• participation in evaluation processes and quality assurance
• participation in the administration of the department and the faculty

 
Profile:

• A doctorate in psychology with a focus on motivation psychology, social psychology, or psychophysiology (Applicants who have completed all doctoral requirements and are awaiting their defense will be considered)
• excellent knowledge of quantitative and experimental research methodology
• excellent knowledge of statistic software (R, MPlus)
• experience with scientific publications
• social competence and ability to integrate into the motivation psychology lab

 
Required documents:

• letter-of-intent
• scientific CV
• publications and lectures directory
• statement on research interests in the field of motivation psychology
• a letter of recommendation and names and contact information of 3 reference persons

Please send your documents directly to Veronika Job (veronika.job@univie.ac.at). Deadline is April 30th.
 

In Memoriam:

Edward L. Deci (1942–2026)

The Society for the Science of Motivation expresses its profound sorrow at the passing of Edward L. Deci, a pioneering psychologist and one of the most influential scholars in the study of human motivation. Dr. Deci, who died on February 14, 2026, was co-founder of Self-Determination Theory and a central figure in shaping contemporary motivation science.

Over a career spanning more than four decades at the University of Rochester, Dr. Deci fundamentally transformed how motivation is understood. His work challenged dominant behaviorist views and articulated a vision of humans as naturally oriented toward growth, curiosity, and connection. Together with Richard Ryan, he developed Self-Determination Theory, identifying autonomy, competence, and relatedness as basic psychological needs essential for motivation, development, and well-being. This framework has profoundly influenced research and practice across psychology, education, health, organizations, and public policy.

Beyond his intellectual contributions, Dr. Deci was widely admired as a generous mentor and community builder whose influence is reflected in generations of scholars advancing motivation science worldwide.

His legacy continues to guide the field and aligns deeply with SSM’s mission to advance rigorous, impactful research on motivation. We extend our condolences to his family, colleagues, students, and the global community shaped by his work.

A rememberance and gathering will be held on Saturday, March 14, from 1:00–3:00 p.m. (ET) at the University of Rochester Interfaith Chapel (Address: 1045 Wilson Blvd., Rochester, New York 14627).

For those who wish to honor Ed’s life and legacy, contributions may be made to the Center for Self-Determination Theory (CSDT): https://selfdeterminationtheory.org