PhD Position: Short-Term Mindsets and Crime – From Theory to Intervention Max Planck Institute for the Study of Crime, Security and Law in Germany

The Department of Criminology at the Max Planck Institute for the Study of Crime, Security and Law in Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany, is offering a fully funded PhD position focused on the innovative topic of short-term mindsets and crime. Under the direction of Professor Jean-Louis van Gelder, this research program explores the dynamic mechanisms underlying criminal behavior, specifically investigating how short-term orientations influence decision-making and crime propensity. The position is part of a broader agenda to unify fragmented predictors of crime through the Short-Term Mindsets Theory (STMT), which posits that individuals' focus on immediate versus long-term outcomes is a key factor in understanding and preventing crime.

As a PhD candidate, you will join an international and interdisciplinary team, collaborating with experts in criminology, psychology, behavioral science, and related fields. The research environment at MPI-CSL is highly dynamic, with access to state-of-the-art laboratory facilities, specialist libraries, databases, and comprehensive academic support. The department is renowned for its application of innovative methods, developmental theories, and real-world interventions, and currently hosts several researchers with prestigious European Research Council grants.

Your work will involve designing and conducting empirical studies on the causes, consequences, and malleability of short-term mindsets, with opportunities to develop your own research ideas within this framework. Potential research directions include situational triggers, decision-making processes, behavioral proxies, and interventions targeting short-term orientations. The position encourages interdisciplinary collaboration and offers numerous opportunities to participate in workshops, seminars, and conferences.

Eligibility requirements include a completed or nearly completed master’s degree in psychology, pedagogy, empirical criminology, behavioral economics, sociology, or a related discipline. Candidates should possess a background in statistics, experience with experimental research, a strong interest in crime research, and excellent English language skills. A collaborative attitude and commitment to open science are highly valued. German language skills are beneficial but not mandatory.

The position is full-time (39 hours/week) and limited to four years, with no teaching obligations. Remuneration and social benefits are provided according to the German Civil Service Collective Agreement (TVöD Bund), pay category 13, 65%, including health care, long-term care, unemployment, and retirement insurance. The Institute supports a positive 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.

Applications from underrepresented groups in science and research are strongly encouraged. To apply, submit your motivation letter, CV, writing sample, study certificates, transcripts, and reference contact details via the online application portal by 31 December 2025. For questions, contact Prof. Dr. Dr. Jean-Louis van Gelder or Dr. Annika Hampel. Interviews for shortlisted candidates will be held online in February 2026.