We are looking for a motivated PhD candidate for a four-year PhD position at the Department of Experimental Psychology at Utrecht University. Do you have a strong interest in the underlying mechanisms of sensory hypersensitivity? Maybe this is the perfect opportunity for you!

Your job
In this project of PI’s Nathan van der Stoep and Chris Paffen, we want to investigate the underlying mechanisms of sensory hypersensitivity, a condition that affects about 20% of neurotypical population and 60-80% of people with acquired brain damage. Because of the lack of knowledge about the underlying mechanisms, there are currently no diagnostic tools and evidence-based treatments available. In this project, we will use a variety of psychophysical and electrophysiological methods to test the hypothesis that hypersensitivity arises at early stages of sensory processing and is modulated by stress and (hyper-)arousal. Methods include psychophysics, EEG, lesion-overlap analysis, skin-conductance, and non-invasive fluid analysis (i.e. saliva). The project will run for four years (90% research, 10% teaching). You will participate in the PhD education programme of the Helmholtz research school.

Your work will include 10% teaching tasks, such as the supervision of Bachelor’s and Master’s theses and seminars for courses related to experimental psychology. Of course, you will be guided and supported in this by your supervisor and colleagues.

We are looking for an enthusiastic and collaborative team member, who meets the following requirements:

• a (Research) Master’s degree in the field of experimental psychology, neuropsychology, cognitive neuroscience, artificial intelligence, or equivalent programme;
• a strong affinity with and experience in programming (i.e., Matlab, Python, or R);
• excellent knowledge of quantitative research and statistics and a high motivation to learn new methods;
• affinity with and good communication abilities for working in a multidisciplinary research team;
• high proficiency in written and spoken English (Dutch not required);
• interest and motivation to contribute to the teaching activities of the department.

We offer:

• a position for one year, with an extension to a total of four years upon a successful assessment in the first year, and with the specific intent that it results in a doctorate within this period;
• a working week of 38 hours and a gross monthly salary between €2,770 and €3,539 in the case of full-time employment (salary scale P under the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities (CAO NU);
• 8% holiday pay and 8.3% year-end bonus;
• a pension scheme, partially paid parental leave and flexible terms of employment based on the CAO NU.

In addition to the terms of employment laid down in the CAO NU, Utrecht University has a number of schemes and facilities of its own for employees. This includes schemes facilitating professional development, leave schemes and schemes for sports and cultural activities, as well as discounts on software and other IT products. We also offer access to additional employee benefits through our Terms of Employment Options Model. In this way, we encourage our employees to continue to invest in their growth. For more information, please visit Working at Utrecht University.

Universiteit Utrecht

A better future for everyone. This ambition motivates our scientists in executing their leading research and inspiring teaching. At Utrecht University, the various disciplines collaborate intensively towards major strategic themes. Our focus is on Dynamics of Youth, Institutions for Open Societies, Life Sciences and Pathways to Sustainability. Shaping science, sharing tomorrow.

The Faculty of Social and Behavioural Sciences is one of the leading faculties in Europe providing research and academic teaching in cultural anthropology, educational sciences, interdisciplinary social science, pedagogical sciences, psychology, and sociology. Almost 7,000 students are enrolled in a broad range of undergraduate and graduate programmes. The Faculty of Social and Behavioural Sciences has some 1,100 faculty and staff members, all providing their individual contribution to the training and education of young talent and to the research into and finding solutions for scientific and societal issues. The faculty is located at Utrecht Science Park near the historical city centre of Utrecht.