Postdoc in Social Psychology of Secure Software Development

The University of Gothenburg is seeking a postdoctoral researcher for an interdisciplinary project at the Department of Computer Science and Engineering, specifically within the Division for Interaction Design and Software Engineering. This postdoc will join the Psycurity project, which investigates how social-psychological factors influence security behaviors in software development teams. The research aims to apply the Theory of Planned Behavior to understand and improve security practices in agile software development, working with organizations from both public and private sectors, including the Swedish Transport Administration. The position involves 80% research and 20% teaching, focusing on mixed-methods research that combines qualitative studies, survey development, and statistical analysis to identify drivers and barriers to secure coding behaviors. Responsibilities include leading empirical data collection through interviews and focus groups, developing validated measurement instruments, designing and evaluating behavioral interventions, and collaborating closely with software development teams. The postdoc will have significant autonomy in shaping research directions while contributing to a practice-oriented project with immediate industry relevance. Applicants must hold a doctoral degree in Software Engineering, Computer Science, Cybersecurity, or Psychology (social, organizational, or behavioral), or an equivalent foreign degree. The degree should be completed within three years prior to the application deadline, unless special circumstances apply. Candidates should have experience in empirical research methods, excellent English communication skills, and enthusiasm for interdisciplinary collaboration. Additional merits include experience with interview-based research, survey design, statistical analysis, agile methodologies, or security engineering. The position is a fixed-term, full-time contract for 24 months, with funding provided for the duration. Salaries are set individually. The selection process includes an initial assessment of submitted materials and interviews with shortlisted candidates, evaluating academic excellence, research experience, methodological skills, and motivation. Applications must be submitted via the University of Gothenburg’s recruitment portal by November 18, 2025. For project-related questions, contact Farnaz Fotrousi; for position-related questions, contact Eric Knauss; and for recruitment process questions, contact Sanna Staf. The University values diversity and equal conditions in the workplace.