Post doc: Leading a large-scale, innovative project on developing new digital interventions for negative symptoms of psychosis

Post doc: Leading a large-scale, innovative project on developing new digital interventions for negative symptoms of psychosis
Join our interdisciplinary team at the Center for Contextual Psychiatry (CCP) and the Center for Clinical Psychiatry (CCliPs) at KU Leuven. The CCP is a leading, internationally recognized research center known for its expertise in designing, implementing, and analysing experimental studies and clinical trials, using Experience Sampling Methodology in mental health research. Headed by Prof. Inez Myin-Germeys, CCP brings together 25 researchers from diverse backgrounds in a vibrant and collaborative environment. CCliPs, led by Prof. van Winkel, focuses on the socioenvirome of psychosis, using Virtual Reality to examine, for example, the impact of childhood trauma and minority stress on the development of youth mental health problems. Both CCP and CCliPs are part of the Department of Neurosciences within the School of Medicine at KU Leuven, one of the most renowned research universities in Europe. You will join their Methusalem program, an ambitious, large-scale research initiative dedicated to developing new interventions for negative symptoms of psychosis. As one of the senior researchers in this program, you will play a pivotal role in shaping future mental health care by developing a novel treatment for negative symptoms (NS) of psychosis, one of the most challenging aspects of psychiatric care. Unit website.

Responsibilities
This research program takes a contextual approach to negative symptoms, uniquely integrating Virtual Reality (VR) and Experience Sampling Methodology (ESM) to examine approach-avoidance behavior as a central mechanism underlying amotivation, a core negative symptom of psychosis. In addition, we combine this with qualitative research and participatory methods, ensuring that the voices of individuals with lived experience deepen our understanding of amotivation and inform treatment development.

A key innovation is the integration of Ecological Momentary Interventions (EMIs) with VR, creating a new, personalized, context-sensitive treatment for negative symptoms.

As a Postdoctoral Researcher, you will:

• Supervise and coordinate the project across multiple work packages (VR, ESM, EMI, qualitative research).
• Co-supervise PhD students and research assistants working on complementary aspects of the project.
• Collaborate with the statistical post-doc on the study who will lead advanced statistical developments.
• Ensure methodological rigor and scientific excellence throughout all phases of the research.
• Contribute to high-impact publications, dissemination activities, and the development of clinical applications.
• Play a key role in shaping the intervention and preparing for clinical trials.

Profile
The candidate has a PhD in psychology, psychiatry, cognitive science or a related field

• Strong background in experimental design, clinical research, or digital mental health.
• Experience with VR, ESM, or intervention development is highly desirable.
• Knowledge of qualitative research is an asset.
• Excellent organizational and supervisory skills.
• Strong publication record and ability to work in an interdisciplinary team.
• Proficiency in English (C1 level), Dutch is an asset.

Offer
A full-time post-doctoral position in a world-class research environment

• An initial contract of one year, with the possibility to extend this with 2 years, based on performance.
• Competitive salary according to KU Leuven standards.
• Flexible starting date, but no later than July 1, 2026. Interviews will be held on March 30 and April 2.

Interested?
For this application, the following information will be considered:

• Cover Letter (describing your motivation, research career goals, skills, and experience).
• CV.
• Diploma and transcripts of records (BSc, MSc, PhD).
• Contact details of at least two reference persons.
• Other information for consideration (e.g., a list of publications).

Please use the university’s job portal when applying for this position.

For more information, please contact Prof. Inez Myin-Germeys (Inez.germeys@kuleuven.be) or Prof. Ruud van Winkel (ruud.vanwinkel@kuleuven.be).

You can apply for this job no later than March 16, 2026.

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