PhD position in ecological momentary assessment and addiction research (ERC Starting Grant) Université catholique de Louvain in Belgium

This fully funded PhD position at Université catholique de Louvain is part of the ERC Starting Grant project BodyCrave, led by Dr. Mateo Leganes-Fonteneau. The research focuses on ecological momentary assessment (EMA) to investigate craving dynamics in Alcohol Use Disorder and Tobacco Use Disorder, and evaluates interventions targeting bodily processes within a randomized controlled trial framework. The successful candidate will join a newly established research team embedded within the Alcohol Research Group of the Louvain Experimental Psychopathology Research Group, collaborating closely with Prof. Pierre Maurage’s team.

The project integrates clinical research, intensive longitudinal data collection, and advanced statistical modeling. The PhD student will implement and manage EMA protocols in clinical populations, coordinate data collection within a randomized controlled trial, monitor data quality and participant engagement, analyze intensive longitudinal and clinical trial data, and contribute to dissemination and collaborative project components. International training and research stays are also part of the role.

Applicants must have a Master’s degree in Psychology, Cognitive Science, Clinical Psychology, or a related discipline, with training or experience in clinical research or work with patients with substance use disorders. Strong quantitative skills, including statistical analysis of longitudinal data and coding experience (e.g., R, Python), are required. Experience with network analysis, multilevel modelling, or time-series methods is a strong asset. Organizational skills and the ability to work independently in a multidisciplinary team are essential. Knowledge of French is a strong asset.

The PhD student will receive close supervision within the ERC project and methodological support from a postdoctoral researcher specializing in EMA and longitudinal data analysis. The position offers strong support for doctoral training and career development, targeted training opportunities with international collaborators, and access to clinical populations and state-of-the-art research infrastructure. The salary is fixed according to doctoral regulations and is competitive within the Brussels region, with transport to the workplace covered.

To apply, submit a single PDF including an academic CV, a one-page report on past research, a one-page research proposal related to the project topic, and contact details of two referees, along with undergraduate and master’s transcripts. Applications should be sent via email to [email protected]. The position is expected to start after September 2026, with flexibility depending on candidate availability. Applications are evaluated on a rolling basis, and candidates are encouraged to apply as soon as possible. For more information about the research group, visit https://www.uclep.be/ARL/home.

Apply directly via the portal: https://academicpositions.com/#apply.