Research Assistant; PhD student in Educational Psychology

Research Assistant (PhD student) in Educational Psychology (80% - 100%)

Place of work:
Brig

Start date:

September 1 st, 2026 (with flexibility)

The position can be structured either as a research-only position or as a combined research and teaching assistant position (80% - 100%). It is designed as a PhD qualification position, with structured support toward completing a dissertation within a four-year contract period. The work is conducted at the Uni Distance in Brig, with a home office possibility for up to 40%.

The successful candidate will join the Educational Psychology Lab led by Prof. Dr. Tino Endres. The lab investigates how learners construct complex knowledge, with a particular focus on cognitive, metacognitive, and motivational processes that support or hinder learning. The doctoral dissertation should fall within the research topics of the Lab and potentially be aligned with ongoing research projects. The exact topic will be developed jointly with the successful candidate.

Responsibilities

• Plan, conduct, analyze, and report experimental studies in the field of learning and instruction
• Write scientific papers in English as part of a publication-based dissertation
• Participate in an interdisciplinary research centre
• Present research findings at national and international conferences
• If applicable, support teaching activities in the Educational Psychology Lab, particularly in the areas of Learning and Instruction and Developmental Psychology

Qualifications

• Master's degree or equivalent qualification in Psychology, Educational Sciences, or a related field
• A strong interest in learning and instruction
• A self-regulated, reliable, and conscientious working style
• Excellent written and spoken English
• Curiosity and motivation to develop new skills and competencies

Additional assets

• Experience with experimental research
• Knowledge of quantitative research methods and statistical software
• Experience with open-science practices
• German and/or French language skills
• Experience in teaching or student support

Structured PhD supervision:
Regular, goal-oriented supervision and support in developing a publication-based dissertation.

A strong research environment:
An active academic culture within the Institute of Psychology, with interdisciplinary collaboration and high scientific and ethical standards.

Research infrastructure and support:
Access to participant recruitment structures, experimental software, open-science infrastructure, student assistant support, and internal funding opportunities for data collection, conferences, and academic development.

Academic networking:
Close collaboration with leading partner universities and opportunities for national and international scientific exchange.

Career development:
Training opportunities in research methods, teaching, academic writing, and transferable skills.

Flexible and attractive working conditions:
Partial remote work within the institutional framework, generous social benefits, the possibility of a full-time position, and a competitive salary of approximately CHF 71, at 100%.

An inspiring location: A campus in Brig within walking distance of the railway station and close to very attractive natural and mountain regions.

Applications will be considered from candidates residing in Switzerland or planning to relocate to Switzerland.