The Clinical Psychology group at the University of Groningen invites applications for a PhD position (4 years).
Childhood trauma has long been identified as a critical risk factor for the development of mental disorders. Less known is the fact that childhood trauma also is an important risk factor for adulthood trauma, a phenomenon termed re-victimization. Previous studies on revictimization identified factors on both, the victim’s and the perpetrator’s side, that contribute to a significantly increased risk of victimization in subjects previously exposed to childhood trauma. The PhD candidate will therefore conduct empirical research involving both survivors of childhood trauma and perpetrators. The overall aim is to develop a comprehensive theoretical framework for revictimization risk that can inform preventative strategies and interventions.

The specific aim of the PhD project is to conduct both cross-sectional and longitudinal research investigating potential predictor variables for revictimization. The position is embedded in the international graduate school Experimental Psychopathology (https://epp-research.eu/), which will provide theory and methods workshops and research track meetings. The position includes teaching at the bachelor’s and master’s level for 15% of the allotted time.

The Clinical Psychology group at the University of Groningen has a national and international reputation for excellence. Research within the Clinical Psychology group focuses on understanding the causal mechanisms underlying the emergence and maintenance of mental disorders, including trauma-related disorders. To this end, the group uses a large variety of research methods, ranging from lab experiments, surveys, and experience-sampling methods to brain imaging. The group is internationally diverse, collaborates with scholars within and outside of the University of Groningen, and has established contacts with various treatment providers. For more information see: www.rug.nl/gmw/organization/staff/psy-basiseenheid-klinische-psychologie/

We are looking for candidates who meet the following requirements:

- excellent master degree – preferably a research master degree – in a relevant field of Psychology
- some knowledge of the literature on childhood trauma as well as trauma-related disorders and interventions
- experience with quantitative research and analysis techniques (experimental or survey research, analysis of questionnaire, reaction time or eye-tracking data)
- good communication skills in English, both verbally and in written form
- ability to work independently and collaborate with practitioners.

Fixed-term contract: 48 months.

The University of Groningen offers a salary that ranges from € 2,222 gross per month in the first year of the appointment, rising to € 2,840 gross per month in the fourth year for a full-time position. The position is temporary for a period of 4 years, under the condition of a positive assessment at the end of the first year.

The job interviews are scheduled in January 2018. Selected candidates will be asked to prepare an assignment.

The intended starting date is 1 March 2018

How to apply
You may apply for this position until 7 January 23:59 h / before 8 January 2018 Dutch local time by means of the application form (click on "Apply" below on the advertisement on the university website).

Applicants are requested to submit:
- a motivation letter stating your motivation to apply for the position and your key qualities relevant for this position
- a curriculum vitae
- a scan of your diploma including list of course grades
- contact information of two academic references
- other relevant documents (e.g. publications).

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Faculty of Behavioural and Social Sciences

Since its foundation in 1614, the University of Groningen has enjoyed an international reputation as a dynamic and innovative centre of higher education offering high-quality teaching and research. Balanced study and career paths in a wide variety of disciplines encourage the 30,000 students and researchers to develop their own individual talents. Belonging to the best research universities in Europe and joining forces with prestigious partner universities and networks, the University of Groningen is an international place of knowledge.

The Faculty of Behavioural and Social Sciences is a centre of knowledge focusing on individuals and society. The faculty studies issues relating to human behaviour, and the relationships between people and society as a whole. This includes the study of how people function under normal circumstances, but also of the problems encountered by individuals or groups, and how these can be resolved or prevented. The Department of Psychology is part of the Faculty of Behavioural and Social Sciences, and offers bachelor’s and master’s programmes in both Dutch and English to over 3000 students.