Job Alert! Senior Scientist for Online-Panel Lab NexusSoSci at the Faculty of Social Sciences - Application Deadline: 22 June 2026

16.06.2026

The new Core Facility NexusSoSci is being established at the Faculty of Social Sciences. NexusSoSci provides the infrastructural and technical foundations for a central service and competence center for social science research. It brings together qualitative and quantitative methodological expertise in data collection, data preparation, and data analysis. The three Senior scientists and the coordinator employed in the facility play a key role in developing the digital, material, and spatial infrastructures that supports research projects, training, and networking activities. The position will initially be based at the Dean’s Office of the Faculty of Social Sciences and then

transferred to a subunit following a positive evaluation. We intend to fill the position of Senior Scientist for the Online-Panel Lab from 1st of July onwards, but latest by 01 September 2026.

 

The position is initially limited to four years. Conversion to a permanent position is generally possible, contingent on a positive evaluation and secured funding for the Core Facility.

Your personal sphere of influence:

The Online Panel Lab within NexusSoSci serves as the central social science service and competence center for quantitative individual-level data collections, operating an online panel recruited through random samples drawn from the Central Population Register.

The Senior Scientist plays a key role by (1) establishing and advancing long-term, scientifically robust data collection via an online panel; (2) providing scientific advice on the planning of research projects; and (3) leading training and networking activities.

 

 

Responsibilities:

  • Program and configure online surveys
  • Design samples, including supplementary/boost samples
  • Manage survey fieldwork, including invitations and reminders
  • Coordinate incentive distribution and troubleshoot related issues
  • Ensure data quality through monitoring, validation, and documentation
  • Maintain the online panel by updating participant records and tracking panel attrition
  • Manage participant communications and feedback
  • Support data preparation and archiving with AUSSDA
  • Support the linkage of survey data with registry data (governance, protocols, and documentation)
  • Conduct preliminary feasibility assessments of proposed projects; advise researchers on implementation and foster academic exchange
  • Develop and deliver workshops on survey methods and applied data analysis
  • Contribute to the strategic development of the Online Panel Lab through needs assessments, national and international networking, and partnerships
  • Teach social science methods in accordance with the collective bargaining agreement

 

 

 

Profile:

  • Completed PhD in a relevant discipline, preferably in the social sciences or a related field
  • Demonstrated expertise in (digital) survey research and the statistical analysis of individual-level data
  • Excellent programming skills in survey platforms (e.g., QuestionPro, Qualtrics) and statistical software (R, Stata)
  • Knowledge of JavaScript programming
  • Experience in project management and securing external funding
  • Ability to communicate complex methodological and technical topics clearly to diverse audiences
  • Strong collaboration and communication skills, with an interest in building scientific infrastructure
  • Excellent teamwork and organizational abilities
  • Independent, structured, and responsible work style

 

 

What we offer:

  • We offer you the opportunity to participate in an inspiring research environment that brings together notable experts in the field (networking)
  • You can make a meaningful contribution in a socially relevant area (“pioneering work”)
  • You will work in a team of dedicated colleagues at one of the world's most renowned universities, which is also family-friendly
  • Your salary is 5.014,30 euros (full-time basis; gross) and increases if we can credit professional experience. 

 

It is that easy to apply:

  •  Cover letter
  • Letter of motivation (max. 2 pages), including an explanation of how your interests, skills, and experience match the requirements profile
  • Curriculum vitae
  • Certificate of completion of your doctoral degree
  • A sample of your most important scientific publication
  • Up to two references
  • Via our job portal/ Apply now -  button

 

More Information and application here: https://jobs.univie.ac.at/job/Senior-Scientist-for-Online-Panel-Lab-NexusSoSci/1403709333/