Are you passionate about utilizing cutting-edge computational methods to enhance our understanding of mental health? Do you have a strong interest in clinical psychology and aspire to develop innovative solutions for suicide prevention? We are seeking a highly motivated PhD candidate to join our project titled: "Understanding the Dynamics of Suicide: An Agent-Based Modeling Approach to Inform Intervention Strategies in an Urban Context."

In this project, we aim to employ computational modeling to gain deeper insights into the transition from suicidal ideation to actual suicidal behavior. This collaborative initiative leverages the expertise of the Department of Clinical Psychology, the Department of Psychological Methods, and the Department of Computer Science. You will be based in the Department of Clinical Psychology, a supportive and stimulating academic environment in the heart of Amsterdam. The supervision team includes Dr. Derek de Beurs, Dr. Valeria Krzhizhanovskaya, Prof. Merel Kindt, and Prof. Denny Borsboom.

Additionally, the PhD candidate will be a member of the Centre for Urban Mental Health (UMH). UMH is the largest Research Priority Area of the University of Amsterdam, bringing together unique multidisciplinary research teams from the Social and Behavioural Sciences, the Faculty of Medicine, and the Faculty of Science, alongside the Institute for Advanced Study (IAS, UvA).

The ideal PhD candidate for this project will possess strong computational skills and a keen interest in clinical psychology. They should be ambitious and committed to advancing our understanding of the complexity of suicidal behavior through multidisciplinary teamwork.

What are you going to do

You will

• Work on the computational and mathematical formalization of suicide prevention models;
• Develop agent based models to test different scenario’s;
• Translate the findings to future implementable clinical interventions;
• Play an active role within the Urban Mental Health community.

What do you have to offer

Your experience and profile

• (Research) master in psychological methods, computational science, computer science or a related field.
• Proven expertise in computational modelling techniques.
• Demonstrated interest in clinical psychology and mental health research.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills.

What can we offer you
The position concerns temporary employment of 38 hours per week for a maximum term of 4 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.

For this position the University Job Classification profile “promovendus” applies.

Your salary will be €2.770,- gross per month in the first year and will increase to €3.539,- 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.

About us
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.

Questions
Do you have any questions or do you require additional information? Please contact:

• Derek de Beurs. Assistant professor in clinical psychology. D.debeurs@uva.nl

Job application
Do you recognize yourself in the job profile? Then we look forward to receiving your application by 31 August 2024. You may apply online by using the link below.

Applications in .pdf should include:

• a curriculum vitae;
• a letter of motivation;

The UvA is an equal-opportunity employer. We prioritize diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for everyone. We value a spirit of enquiry and perseverance, provide the space to keep asking questions, and promote a culture of curiosity and creativity.

If you encounter Error GBB451/ GBC451, reach out to our HR Department directly. They will gladly help you continue your application.

No agencies please.