PhD recruitments 2025 - Department of Psychology (Addiction, Digital Interventions, Mathematical Modelling) Stockholm University in Sweden

Stockholm University’s Department of Psychology is recruiting two PhD students for a five-year project titled “Time Matters: Uncovering dynamic mechanisms and optimising the intervention timing across the addictions,” funded by a 2025 European Research Council Starting Grant. The department is internationally recognized for research in occupational, clinical, cognitive, developmental, and social psychology, and offers access to advanced research infrastructure, including laboratories for sleep and sensory research, a recording studio, and the Stockholm University Brain Imaging Centre. The project, led by Dr Olga Perski, aims to combine ecological momentary assessment (EMA) and passive sensing via smartphones and smartwatches to better understand and intervene in addictive behaviors. One PhD position focuses on the psychological investigation of dynamic processes, developing novel measurement tools for smartwatch and smartphone delivery, conducting online and laboratory experiments, and running intensive longitudinal studies with individuals experiencing hazardous alcohol consumption, heavy cannabis use, or problem gambling. The other PhD position centers on mathematical modelling and computer simulations, specifically developing and validating a dynamical systems model of relapse risk in addictions. Both positions offer opportunities for international conference travel, research visits, and participation in summer schools. Candidates should be motivated, independent, and collaborative, with interests in addiction research, digital interventions, quantitative methods, and longitudinal study designs. Experience with data collection, participant interaction, coding in R, MATLAB, or Python, and mathematical modelling is advantageous. Applicants must have a master’s degree or equivalent, with specific coursework in psychology or a relevant discipline, and excellent English language skills. Employment is full-time, fixed-term for up to four years, with renewal possible. The department values diversity and equal opportunity. Applications must be submitted via Stockholm University’s recruitment system, including a personal letter, CV, and all required attachments. For further information, contact Dr Olga Perski (PI) or the Director of Studies, Mats Nilsson.