FACULTY OF PSYCHOLOGY:

Chair of Clinical Psychology and Digital Psychotherapy DZPG
In order to fill a fixed-term position in part-time (29.8725 hours/week = 75%) at the earliest possible date, we are looking for 1
PostDoc Research associate (m/f/x)
Within the framework of the German Centre for Mental Health (DZPG), the Clinical Psychology and Digital Psychotherapy group (https://fbz-bochum.de/professur-klinische-psychologie-digitale-psychotherapie) led by Prof. Dr. Mar Rus-Calafell is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Researcher to join an innovative research project investigating worries about harm from others (a key feature of paranoid thinking) in the general population. The project places a strong emphasis on understanding how these experiences emerge, develop over time, and how they may differ across diverse ethnic and cultural groups. This interdisciplinary project aims to uncover psychological, social, and contextual factors contributing to paranoid ideation and to inform the development of sensitive, population-level screening and early intervention strategies. The postdoctoral researcher will contribute to the design and implementation of a longitudinal study, engage with communities to ensure inclusivity and cultural sensitivity, and support the development of digital tools for large-scale assessment and outreach.
Scope: part-time
Duration: fixed-term, 2 Jahre
Start: at the earliest possible date
Apply by: 2025-09-08

REQUIREMENTS:

• A PhD (or near completion of a PhD) in Clinical Psychology is required. Candidates with a background in Developmental Psychology or Neuroscience with strong clinical relevance will also be considered.
• Solid grounding in etiological models of mental health disorders (preferable those related to paranoid thinking, social threat perception, or psychotic-spectrum phenomena).
• Demonstrated experience in empirical research, including a strong publication record in peer-reviewed journals.
• Very good command of both English and German (spoken and written), suitable for both scientific communication and interaction with diverse study populations.
• High level of computer literacy, including proficiency in statistical software (e.g., SPSS, R, or Python).

DESIRABLE:

• Relevant clinical-psychological experience working with individuals with mental health disorders (adults and/or children), ideally with psychosis, supported by advanced or completed training as a psychological psychotherapist or child and adolescent psychotherapist.
• Strong organisational skills, high intrinsic motivation, and the ability to work independently and collaboratively in an interdisciplinary team.
• Excellent communication skills, reliability, and a proactive, solution-oriented approach to research and project coordination.
  We are looking for team members who bring enthusiasm, creativity, strong organisational skills, and a sense of commitment to the overarching goals of the study. In return, we offer a dynamic and supportive environment with ample opportunities for professional growth, meaningful contribution, and active involvement in shaping the project.

• Coordination and day-to-day management of a DZPG-affiliated research project investigating worries about harm from others (paranoid thinking) in the general population.
• Preparation and implementation of longitudinal data collection, in collaboration with an external Digital Panel partner.
• Organisation and facilitation of a multi-ethnic Lived Experience Advisory Panel to ensure cultural sensitivity and relevance of the research.
• Contribution to statistical analyses of study data, in close collaboration with project partners at the Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität in Munich.
• Active cooperation with other researchers and projects within the Clinical Psychology and Digital Psychotherapy group and the DZPG.
• Support with project-related administrative tasks, including documentation and coordination with external partners.
• Supervision and mentoring of research assistants and doctoral students involved in the project.
• Preparation of scientific reports and peer-reviewed publications.
• Presentation of research findings at national and international conferences and stakeholder meetings.