PhD in AI-Driven Lifestyle Coaching for Severe Mental Illness at Eindhoven University of Technology Eindhoven University of Technology in Netherlands

PhD opportunity at Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e) in the Department of Industrial Design within the THRIVE project, focused on AI-driven lifestyle coaching for people with severe mental illness (SMI). The project sits at the intersection of computer science, human-computer interaction, industrial design, digital health, and behavior change, with a strong emphasis on real-world impact.

The research aims to develop personalized coaching solutions that can help people with SMI improve health-related behaviors such as physical activity, nutrition, sleep, and stress management. The PhD candidate will work on collecting real-world data using ecological momentary assessments, digital diaries, and wearables; building predictive AI models; and designing a conversational, just-in-time adaptive intervention delivered through users’ smartphones.

The position is highly collaborative. Supervision at TU/e is by Sebastian Cmentowski, Pieter van Gorp, and Panos Markopoulos, with additional guidance from TNO Health & Work in Leiden under Hilde van Keulen and Pepijn van Empelen. The work involves academic, clinical, and industrial partners across the Netherlands and includes part-time work at TNO in Leiden.

Eligibility highlights: a master’s degree in HCI, Computer Science, Industrial Design, or a related field; strong Python and app/web development skills; ability to work independently and in interdisciplinary teams; excellent communication and planning skills; and fluency in English and Dutch at C1 level. Experience with AI, UX, or digital health is a plus, and interest in mental health is important.

Funding: this is a full-time, four-year PhD employment with salary from €3,059 to €3,881 per month, plus an 8.3% year-end bonus and 8% vacation pay. Additional benefits include relocation/visa support, training, commuting and home-working allowances, and access to TU/e facilities and the Brainport Eindhoven innovation ecosystem.

Deadline: apply by 2026-05-31. Applications are submitted online through the TU/e vacancy portal. Prepare a cover letter and a CV including publications and the contact details of three references. The vacancy remains open until filled, but complete applications are prioritized.