PhD, Connecting Phenomena to Theories in Psychological Science

We are seeking a PhD candidate in the Vici-project Theory Construction Methodology, funded by NWO. The objective of this project is to develop methodology that can be used in theory construction through the development of formal models, specifically in the context of psychology. Such formal models should be tested against robust empirical phenomena, but in psychology it is unclear a) which phenomena are robust and b) how these should be represented in statistical and generative models (i.e., simulation models). The goal of the current PhD project is to develop methods for identifying, characterizing, and encoding phenomena such that they can serve as benchmarks for theoretical models. The PhD track is within the Psychological Methods Group of the University of Amsterdam and will be situated within the Theory Methods Lab.

What are you going to do

You will:

• investigate existing methodologies to characterize empirical phenomena in psychology;
• develop strategies for using empirical phenomena as benchmarks for theoretical models; and
• write up the results of your research in scientific publications to be included in a PhD Thesis.

We are looking for a candidate with broad scientific interests who has the capacity for abstract, general thinking about these topics. Familiarity with psychological science, an interest in statistical and generative models, experience with methodology, and affinity with philosophy of science are desirable.

You have:

• A completed Master in psychology, methodology, computational sciences, or philosophy of science;
• Affinity with statistical, mathematical, and computational models;
• Experience with programming.

The position concerns temporary employment of 38 hours a week for a maximum term of four years. The initial employment is for one year. Following a positive assessment and barring altered circumstances, this term will be extended by a maximum of 36 months, which should result in the conferral of a doctorate. We will put together a curriculum which will also include the opportunity to attend training courses and both national and international events. You will also be tasked with teaching Bachelor's students. Due to limitations on the NWO budget the PhD candidate can start no later than 1 March 2023.

For this position the University Job Classification profile Promovendus applies.

Your salary will be €2541 gross per month in the first year and will increase to €3247 in the final year, based on full-time employment and in keeping with the Collective Labour Agreement of Dutch Universities. We additionally offer an extensive package of secondary benefits, including 8% holiday allowance and a year-end bonus of 8.3%.

The UvA offers excellent possibilities for further professional development and education.

What else do we offer

• a position in which initiative and input are highly valued
• an enthusiastic and warm team that is open to new colleagues
• an inspiring academic and international working environment in the heart of Amsterdam.

The University of Amsterdam is the largest university in the Netherlands, with the broadest spectrum of degree programmes. It is an intellectual hub with 39,000 students, 6,000 employees and 3,000 doctoral students who are all committed to a culture of inquiring minds.

About the faculty

A challenging work environment with a variety of duties and ample scope for individual initiative and development within an inspiring organization. The social and behavioral sciences play a leading role in addressing the major societal challenges faced by the world, the Netherlands and Amsterdam, now and in the future.

Want to know more about our organisation? Read more about working at the University of Amsterdam.