Join the Center for Contextual Psychiatry (CCP) and the Center for Clinical Psychiatry (CCliPs) at KU Leuven, one of Europe's most renowned research universities. This PhD position is part of the Methusalem program, a large-scale, innovative research initiative dedicated to developing new interventions for negative symptoms of psychosis. The CCP, led by Prof. Inez Myin-Germeys, is internationally recognized for its expertise in experimental studies and clinical trials using Experience Sampling Methodology in mental health research. CCliPs, headed by Prof. Ruud van Winkel, focuses on the socioenvirome of psychosis, utilizing Virtual Reality to study the impact of childhood trauma and minority stress on youth mental health.

As a PhD student, you will be responsible for the qualitative and participatory aspects of the program, investigating how young people experience amotivation—a core negative symptom of psychosis—and what they expect from treatment. Your research will involve focus groups, in-depth interviews, and thematic analysis to gain a nuanced understanding of amotivation. A key responsibility will be establishing and coordinating a Youth Advisory Board, ensuring meaningful involvement of young people throughout the project. You will collaborate with other PhD students and research assistants, conducting experimental studies using Experience Sampling Methodology and Virtual Reality to uncover psychological mechanisms underlying amotivation. Insights from both qualitative and quantitative work will inform the development of novel interventions.

The position offers a one-year contract, renewable for three additional years after a positive evaluation. Salaries are competitive by international standards, and the starting date is flexible but no later than July 1, 2026. The research environment is dynamic and interdisciplinary, bringing together clinical psychologists, experimental psychologists, psychiatrists, and statisticians. KU Leuven is committed to diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunity, fostering a respectful and socially safe environment for all.

Applicants must be a resident in psychiatry or hold a master’s degree in psychology or a related field (Mental Health, Psychiatry, Social/Health Sciences) with demonstrated research interest. Experience with qualitative research is required, and previous experience with experience sampling methodology and literature on psychosis or youth mental health is a plus. Good written and oral command of Dutch and English (C1 proficiency level) is necessary. Application materials include a cover letter, CV, diploma and transcripts, contact details of at least two reference persons, and other relevant information such as a list of publications if applicable. Interviews will be held on March 30 and April 2, 2026. For more information, contact Prof. Inez Myin-Germeys or Prof. Ruud van Winkel by email.

Apply via the KU Leuven job portal by March 16, 2026. The university values open dialogue and differences in perspective, and does not accept any form of discrimination. For questions about accessibility or support, assistance is available via the provided email addresses.