Postdoctoral training at CeMM is designed to recognize the unique and diverse needs of researchers at this career stage. Rather than imposing rigid mandates, CeMM provides tailored opportunities that empower postdocs to define and pursue their own scientific ambitions. Selected candidates join CeMM for a period of three to six years and are encouraged and supported to lead interdisciplinary research projects that address medically relevant challenges—with the ultimate aim of achieving research independence.
The Pre-ERC Postdoc Program continues to grow and evolve, delivering both opportunity and high-impact soft skills training aimed at preparing researchers for independent careers. In 2024, the program offered dedicated sessions on grant writing, scientific publishing, project management, career path planning, and science communication—including how to use generative AI in research. Postdocs also participated in deep-dive discussions on starting and managing a research lab.
A key component of CeMM's postdoctoral training is a monthly brainstorming session hosted by a postdoc, where they present and refine emerging research ideas in collaboration with faculty members. This informal, collegial format fosters early-stage concept development and peer-level dialogue—critical for laying the groundwork for a competitive ERC Starting Grant application.
In recognition of the academic career trajectories many of our postdocs pursue, CeMM also offers selected postdocs the opportunity to serve as tutors for some of the in-house Hot Topics Journal Club sessions. These contributions are officially acknowledged by the Medical University of Vienna, helping postdocs build essential teaching and supervision experience.
Since many of our postdocs will go on to become group leaders in university systems that require experience in teaching and supervision, we offer selected postdocs the opportunity to serves as tutors for some of the in-house Hot Topics Journal Club sessions, for which they are officially recognized by the Medical University of Vienna.
Additionally, CeMM’s Friday Seminar Series gives every postdoc a platform to present their research progress to the full faculty and research community on a nine-monthly rotation. These sessions promote valuable scientific exchange, foster collaboration, and provide in-depth feedback from faculty.
Our Pre-ERC Postdoc Call is open. Apply now!
