The SpringLab at Université catholique de Louvain (UCLouvain) is recruiting two fully funded PhD students to join research projects in the areas of social cognition, neurodegeneration, and loneliness in young adults. The positions are supervised by Professor Dana Samson, with collaborations involving Jan Van den Stock (KU Leuven) and Pegah Masrori (Cliniques universitaires Saint-Luc). The research topics include: (1) Social Cognition & Neurodegeneration, focusing on the cognitive and neural mechanisms underlying social processes in neurodegenerative diseases, and (2) Social Cognition & Loneliness in Young Adults, investigating the psychological and cognitive factors contributing to loneliness and social functioning in younger populations. These PhD positions offer the opportunity to work in a dynamic, interdisciplinary environment at UCLouvain, with access to state-of-the-art facilities and collaborations with leading Belgian institutions. The projects are ideal for candidates with a background in psychology, neuroscience, cognitive science, or related fields, and a strong interest in social cognition, neurodegenerative disorders, or loneliness research. The positions are fully funded, covering tuition fees and providing a stipend for living expenses. Applicants should demonstrate academic excellence, relevant research interests, and proficiency in English. The application deadline is 15 February 2026. For more information and detailed application instructions, visit the SpringLab website or contact the lab directly. This is an excellent opportunity for motivated students to pursue doctoral research in cutting-edge topics at a leading European university.

Springlab at Université catholique de Louvain (UCLouvain) is offering two fully funded PhD positions in the field of social cognition, focusing on neurodegeneration and loneliness in young adults. The research is embedded in a multinational consortium, providing rich opportunities for collaboration with leading institutions in Belgium, France, Italy, the Netherlands, Ireland, and Canada. The Psychological Sciences Research Institute (IPSY) at UCLouvain is internationally recognized and ranked 80th worldwide in Psychology (QS World University Rankings 2025). The first PhD position investigates social cognition and neurodegeneration, aiming to develop innovative markers of social functioning and vulnerability. The candidate will conduct socio-cognitive and behavioral assessments in patients with neurodegenerative diseases and healthy controls, primarily at UCLouvain and KU Leuven. The research will analyze how changes in brain structure due to neurodegeneration affect socio-cognitive abilities and everyday social life. Supervision is provided by Professor Dana Samson (UCLouvain), Professor Jan Van den Stock (KU Leuven), and Dr Pegah Masrori (Cliniques universitaires Saint-Luc). The second PhD position focuses on social cognition and loneliness in young adults, exploring determinants of social isolation and loneliness. The candidate will develop cognitive markers of social motivation and pleasure, conduct laboratory experiments, and use Ecological Momentary Assessment (EMA) via smartphone. The research aims to inform health policies and intervention strategies. Supervision is by Professor Dana Samson (UCLouvain). Both positions require a Master’s degree in Psychological Sciences or (Bio)Medical Sciences (minimum 120 ECTS), with training in neuropsychology and/or neuroscience, and at least a distinction. Strong quantitative data analysis skills, fluency in French (C1 or higher) and English (B2 or higher), and motivation to work in an international team are essential. Knowledge of Dutch and experience with neurodegenerative patients are assets. Candidates must be willing to travel between Louvain-la-Neuve, Brussels, and Leuven for data collection and participate in consortium meetings and outreach activities. Funding is provided by F.R.S.–FNRS, with a full-time PhD scholarship for three years (neurodegeneration) or four years (young adults), and possible one-year extension. The bursary follows standard rates, and travel expenses for data collection are reimbursed. The research environment is dynamic, international, and collaborative, with frequent training and networking opportunities. To apply, send a single PDF containing your CV, Master’s transcripts, motivation letter (specifying which position(s) you apply for), and names/contact details of two referees to [email protected] by February 15, 2026. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews in early March 2026, with online interviews possible. The positions can start on April 1, 2026, or later by mutual agreement. For more details, visit Springlab Available Positions .