PhD: Understanding and Treating Amotivation in Young Psychosis: Qualitative Approach

Offer Description

In this project, the candidate will investigate how young people experience amotivation – a core negative symptom of psychosis – and what they expect and need from treatment for these challenges. Using focus groups and in-depth interviews, combined with thematic analysis, the candidate will gain a nuanced understanding of amotivation.

A key responsibility will be to establish and coordinate a Youth Advisory Board, ensuring meaningful involvement of young people at every stage of the project.

The candidate will collaborate closely with other PhD students and research assistants, conducting experimental studies using methods such as Experience Sampling Methodology and Virtual Reality, to uncover psychological mechanisms underlying amotivation. Insights from both the qualitative and quantitative work will inform the development of novel interventions.

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

• The candidate is resident in psychiatry or has a master’s degree in psychology or a related field (Mental Health, Psychiatry, Social/Health Sciences) and has demonstrated research interest.
• The candidate should have experience with qualitative research. Previous experience with or knowledge of the Experience Sampling Method and literature on psychosis or youth mental health is a plus.
• The candidate should have good written and oral command of Dutch and English (C1 proficiency level).
• Good interpersonal and organizational skills; ability to work in an interdisciplinary team.

A contract for one year will be offered, which is renew able 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 1 July 2026. Interviews will be held on March 30 and April 2.

• Cover Letter describing 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., list of publications if applicable)

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

• For this application, the information listed above will be considered.