Professor of Humanistic Psychotherapy

Scientific ProfileThis professorship is part of a network of several psychotherapy-related professorships involved in the shaping and implementation of an inter-university master’s programme in psychotherapy.The professorship is involved in the training of psychotherapists and the research (conceptual, theoretical, empirical, methodological) and further development of humanistic psychotherapy in its various orientations.In particular, it will focus on the philosophical foundations of psychotherapy (especially phenomenology, existential philosophy, hermeneutics and anthropology), the ethical implications of therapeutic relationships, the socio-political significance of psychotherapy and the problems and implementation of psychotherapy research. In the context of medical applications, theories of salutogenesis and illness, together with approaches to autonomy and self-determination, are examined in relation to the underlying concept of the human being and the self-understanding of the actors involved. The central question of humanistic psychotherapy, embracing this entire thematic spectrum, concerns the “humanum” in all its manifestations.The successful candidate is expected to establish and develop humanistic psychotherapy in Graz in alignment with the scope of activities laid out above, to expand its network of connections at the intra- and inter-university level and to contribute to its international visibility. In the context of teaching and research, the transfer of theory into practice is particularly important. The position aims to provide the central hub connecting the investigation of humanistic psychotherapy and its theoretical-philosophical foundations to an interdisciplinarily developed and reinforced concept of mental health, as well as to psychotherapeutic practical training and vocational preparation.Close cooperation with relevant professorships and good exchange with psychotherapeutic professional associations and professional organisations is therefore necessary. The interdisciplinary approach therefore focuses primarily on psychology, social pedagogy, philosophy and medicine and is integrated into the research networks of the University of Graz.Employment RequirementsAustrian or equivalent foreign higher education degree corresponding with the position (doctorate/PhD)Habilitation or equivalent qualification in Philosophy/Educational sciences/Psychology/Medicine/Health sciencesOutstanding academic qualifications in research and teaching in the relevant discipline and for the profile of the professorship (commensurate with stage of academic career and interruptions in employment due to caring responsibilities)Success in attracting subject-specific project grants, particularly where competitively awarded third-party funds are concernedSkills in higher education didactics or equivalent teaching competences, including the use of digital mediaSkills in the supervision and guidance of early career researchers or specialized young professionals Professional experience abroad during academic careerManagement and leadership experienceGender mainstreaming and diversity management skillsInter- and transdisciplinary competencesAccredited psychotherapist with humanistic qualification or a humanistic thematic focus preferredWillingness to build a multidisciplinary network at the Graz Center for PsychotherapyVery good knowledge of German and EnglishSelection CriteriaThe successful candidate will be highly motivated, aiming for academic excellence and integrity in research and teaching. He/she will have demonstrated ability to collaborate constructively in a responsible manner and inspire colleagues and students in an interdisciplinary, internationally oriented context.Application DocumentsLetter of applicationCurriculum vitae with a description of your academic careerList of publications, numbered, with a complete bibliographic information, sorted bymonographs(co-)edited volumesjournal articlesother informationPresentation of teaching to dateList of previous research projects and collaborationsDescription of future research intentionsList of your five most important publicationsPlease submit your application documents in German or English.Equality PrincipleThe University of Graz is committed to increasing the proportion of female employees, especially in leadership roles. We therefore encourage qualified female colleagues in particular to apply for this position. In case of equal qualifications, women will receive priority consideration.Please note that in order to comply with the applicable data protection regulations, we can only accept applications via our web-based applicant tool for this vacant position.Hearing DatesPlanned dates of the applicant`s presentation: 18.05.2026-19.05.2026ContactUniv.-Prof. Mag. Dr. Sonja Rinofner (sonja.rinofner@uni-graz.at)