Post-doc in Social Psychology and Behavioral Science: Fairness Judgments in Algorithmic and Human Decision-Making SWPS University in Poland

SWPS University, a leading non-public academic institution in Poland, invites applications for a postdoctoral position in Social Psychology and Behavioral Science, based at the Institute of Psychology in Sopot. The university is renowned for its active research centers and its distinction as an A+ category institution in psychology, politics, and administration. The research environment is open, multicultural, and committed to scientific excellence and societal impact.

The postdoc will join a research team investigating the psychological foundations of fairness perceptions in algorithmic and human decision-making. The project, titled "Self-interest and perceived fairness in algorithmic and human decision-making: Psychological foundations of trust in artificial intelligence," focuses on how self-interest influences fairness judgments and leads to systematic biases. The research integrates approaches from moral psychology, decision-making, and human–AI interaction, aiming to identify psychological mechanisms (such as psychological distance, perspective-taking, and perceived competence) and reduce self-interest bias in high-stakes contexts like recruitment, healthcare, and education.

Key duties include independently designing and conducting experimental studies, developing theory-driven research paradigms, managing the full research process (study design, preregistration, data collection, analysis), programming studies on online platforms (Qualtrics, Prolific, BeSample), ensuring high data quality, conducting advanced statistical analyses (moderation, mediation), synthesizing findings, leading publication projects, engaging in open science practices, collaborating closely with the project leader, supporting PhD students, and presenting at international conferences.

Applicants must hold a PhD in social sciences (psychology or related fields) obtained within the last 7 years, with at least 2–3 years of research experience in experimental psychology or behavioral sciences. Essential qualifications include a strong publication record, expertise in experimental design and behavioral methods, advanced statistical skills (R, SPSS, Python), experience with online research platforms, familiarity with open science, and English proficiency at B2 level or higher. Preferred qualifications include leadership in research projects, first-author publications, experience in fairness, judgment, or human–AI interaction, large-scale and cross-cultural studies, advanced open science practices, grant-funded research, international collaboration, and supervision of junior researchers.

The position offers a full-time employment contract until July 1, 2030, with a gross monthly salary of PLN 11,666.66. Additional benefits include bonuses for highly rated publications, discounts on educational programs and language courses, professional development via Erasmus+, psychological support, low-interest housing loans, fitness and healthcare packages, employee rewards, subsidized glasses, and group life insurance.

Required documents: CV with academic achievements, scanned diplomas (Master’s and PhD in Psychology), certificate of English proficiency, research statement (max. 2 pages), and reference letter. Applications should be submitted electronically via the application form. The deadline for submission is May 27, 2026. For further information, contact Zuzanna Świtalska at [email protected] and visit the project website.

Successful candidates will be announced on June 19, 2026, and the position commences July 1, 2026. The Competition Committee, chaired by Associate Professor Konrad Bocian, will evaluate candidates based on academic achievements, project-relevant competencies, and distinctions from scientific work. Only selected candidates will be contacted for interviews.