PhD: Developing gold standard assessment of negative symptoms in young peop

Psychological sciences » Behavioural sciences

Educational sciences » Research methodology

Organisation/Company KU LEUVEN Research Field Psychological sciences » Psychology Psychological sciences » Behavioural sciences Educational sciences » Research methodology Neurosciences » Neuropsychology Researcher Profile Recognised Researcher (R2) First Stage Researcher (R1) Final date to receive applications 16 Mar 2026 - 23:59 (UTC) Country Belgium Type of Contract Temporary Job Status Full-time Offer Starting Date 1 Jul 2026 Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme?

Not funded by a EU programme Reference Number BAP-2026-25 Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure? No

In this project, the PhD candidate will develop gold-standard ESM items for the real-time assessment of amotivation—a core negative symptom of psychosis in young people, combining cutting-edge psychometric techniques with in-depth qualitative methods. The validity of ESM findings depends on adequate measures. However, many ESM items currently in use have unknown psychometric properties and have not undergone formal evaluation. The CCP and CMPO are at the forefront of addressing these measurement challenges, with award‑winning initiatives such as the ESM Item Repository ().

Building on ongoing methodological and meta‑science work in the CCP and CMPO, this project will develop and psychometrically validate gold‑standard ESM items to assess amotivation, using novel qualitative and quantitative techniques to overcome measurement barriers in digital interventions for psychosis treatment.

• Apply quantitative methods to analyze ESM data, including time series analysis and multilevel modeling techniques.
• Evaluate the validity and psychometric properties of ESM items assessing amotivation using qualitative and quantitative methods.
• Develop novel quantitative methods to examine ESM item functioning within ecological momentary interventions.
• Write papers for publication in international peer‑reviewed journals.
• Collaborate closely with researchers across three research lines: (i) ESM methodology, statistics, and meta‑science, (ii) Person‑environment interactions in psychosis, and (iii) Development, efficacy testing, and implementation of Digital Mobile Mental Health.

This position is part of a recently funded, large‑scale research program aimed at creating new treatments for negative symptoms—among the most challenging aspects of psychiatric care. You will join a dynamic, interdisciplinary team of clinical psychologists, experimental psychologists, psychiatrists, and statisticians in an environment that fosters collaboration and scientific excellence.

The candidate holds a master’s degree in psychology or a related discipline (e.g., Mental Health, Psychiatry, Social or Health Sciences) and has demonstrated a strong interest in research. Solid experience with quantitative research methods and strong statistical skills are essential. Familiarity with psychometrics and mixed‑methods approaches is an asset. Prior experience with, or knowledge of, the Experience Sampling Method is highly desirable.

The candidate should be committed to open‑science practices and possess excellent written and spoken English skills (C1 proficiency level).

A contract for one year will be offered, which is renewable for another three years after a positive evaluation. Salaries for PhD students are competitive by international standards. The starting date is flexible, but no later than the first of July 2026.

Interviews will be held on March 30 and April 2.

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 and MSc)
• Contact details of at least two reference persons
• Other information for consideration (e.g., a list of publications if applicable)

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