Postdoctoral Fellow in Psychology

Ghent University

Department: PP07 – Department of Developmental, Personality and Social Psychology

Degree: Master’s in Psychology or related discipline

Occupancy rate: Full-time (100%)

Vacancy type: Research staff

About Ghent University

The Ghent University is a major European research university employing more than 15,000 staff members. It is active in education, research, administration, and societal service, and is internationally recognized for its research-driven academic programmes.

Project Title

MindBreath: A Synergistic Growth Mindsets and Resonant Breathing Intervention to Foster Stress Resilience in Adolescence

Project Overview

This PhD position focuses on adolescent mental health and stress resilience. The project addresses the rising prevalence of anxiety, depression, and stress-related symptoms in adolescents. It explores whether combining cognitive interventions (growth mindset training) and physiological regulation (slow-paced/resonant breathing) can produce synergistic effects to improve mental well-being.

Study Design

The project will conduct a randomized controlled trial (RCT) with multiple groups: Mindsets-only intervention, Breathing-only intervention, Combined mindsets + breathing, Active control condition.

Research Focus

Psychological Measures

• Cognitive beliefs (growth mindset)
• Stress perception
• Daily stress dynamics

Physiological Measures

• Heart rate variability (HRV)
• Baroreflex sensitivity
• Inflammatory activity (downregulation effects)

Data Collection Methods

• Questionnaires
• Laboratory-based physiological assessments
• Experience sampling (intensive longitudinal data)
• School-based data collection (~450 adolescents)

Collaboration Environment

The project is a collaboration between the Department of Developmental, Personality and Social Psychology (supervisors: Prof. Dr. Matteo Giletta, Dr. Nathalie Michels; Phaselab) and the Department of Head and Skin (Prof. Dr. Marie-Anne Vanderhasselt; Gheplab). Work will take place at the Dunant campus of Ghent University.

Responsibilities

The PhD researcher will be responsible for the full research cycle: Obtain ethical approval, Recruit adolescent participants in schools (East & West Flanders), Prepare and manage data collection systems, Coordinate with app developers, Conduct statistical analyses using R and Mplus, Write peer-reviewed scientific publications, Present at international conferences, Produce science communication materials (infographics, videos), Supervise Master’s students, Assist in teaching-related activities.

Candidate Profile

Required

• Master’s degree (preferably research master, minimum cum laude) in Psychology or related discipline
• Strong interest in adolescent mental health and psychophysiology
• Excellent scientific writing and communication skills
• High proficiency in English and Dutch (oral and written)
• Strong organization and teamwork skills
• Ability to work independently and proactively

Preferred Experience

• Data collection in school settings
• Experience with experience sampling / intensive longitudinal data
• Multilevel or nested data analysis
• Tools such as R and Mplus
• Willingness to learn advanced statistical methods

What We Offer

Full-time doctoral fellowship (100%). Initial contract: 12 months. Total duration: up to 48 months (based on positive evaluation). Start date: no later than 1 October 2026.

Academic Environment

International interdisciplinary research team, Training opportunities and courses, Access to conferences and academic networks, Possible research stay abroad, Strong supervision (PI + postdoctoral researcher + MSc assistants).

Benefits

36 days annual leave (full-time equivalent), Bridge holidays, Bicycle commuting allowance, Eco vouchers, Structured training and career development support.

Application Procedure

Submit applications by 5 July 2026 (23:59 Brussels time) via email to matteo.giletta@ugent.be. Required (single PDF): CV, Diploma + academic transcript, Motivation letter (max 2 pages), Contact details of at least 2 referees.

Selection Process

Initial screening of applications. Interviews: 13–16 July 2026. Invitation sent after shortlisting.