The Max Planck Institute for the Study of Crime, Security and Law (MPI-CSL) in Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany, is a leading European research center dedicated to advancing knowledge in criminology, public security, and criminal law. As part of the prestigious Max Planck Society, the Institute offers a vibrant, interdisciplinary environment where experts in criminology, psychology, sociology, mathematics, and computer science collaborate to understand and address the causes and consequences of criminal behavior. The Department of Criminology, led by Professor Jean-Louis van Gelder, is recruiting a PhD candidate for the project "Short-Term Mindsets and Crime: From Theory to Intervention." This research program explores the role of short-term mindsets (STM) in criminal decision-making, investigating how immediate versus long-term orientations influence crime propensity and how interventions might reduce risk. The position is embedded in a dynamic team that pushes the boundaries of crime research through innovative empirical studies, developmental theories, and real-world applications. The department hosts several researchers with ERC grants and maintains strong international collaborations. The successful candidate will design and conduct empirical studies on the causes, consequences, and malleability of short-term mindsets, with opportunities to develop independent research ideas within the project framework. Topics may include situational triggers, decision-making processes, behavioral proxies, and intervention strategies. The position is ideal for candidates with backgrounds in psychology, criminology, behavioral science, or related fields, and a keen interest in bridging theory and application. Experience with experimental designs, longitudinal data, or ecological momentary assessment is advantageous but not mandatory. Applicants should hold (or be close to completing) a master’s or equivalent degree in psychology, pedagogy, empirical criminology, behavioral economics, sociology, or similar disciplines. A background in statistics and experience with experimental research are required, along with strong English language skills, teamwork orientation, and excellent communication abilities. Commitment to open science and transparent research practices is highly valued. German language skills are helpful but not essential. The position is fully funded for four years, with no teaching obligations, and offers a competitive salary based on the German Civil Service Collective Agreement (TVöD Bund, pay category 13, 65%). Benefits include comprehensive social insurance, access to state-of-the-art laboratory facilities, specialist libraries, databases, and administrative support. The Institute promotes work-life balance, flexible work options, professional development opportunities, and free in-house German language courses. Daycare spots are available at a nearby childcare facility. The Max Planck Society is committed to diversity and welcomes applications from underrepresented groups in science and research. The application deadline is 31 December 2025. Applicants will be notified in January 2026 regarding interview invitations, with online interviews planned for February 2026. To apply, submit your application via the online portal, including a motivation letter, CV, writing sample, study certificates, transcripts, and contact details of at least one reference. For further information, visit the Institute’s website or contact Prof. Dr. Dr. Jean-Louis van Gelder or Dr. Annika Hampel at [email protected].