Two PhD candidates in Developmental & Educational Psychology (1.0 FTE) Leiden University in Netherlands

Leiden University invites applications for two fully funded PhD positions in Developmental & Educational Psychology, focusing on academic equity for students with ADHD in higher education. These positions are part of the research project “Time for Academic Equity: Optimizing Support for Students with ADHD in Higher Education,” funded by the Dutch Research Council (NKO) and supervised by Dr. Bianca Boyer, Dr. Anna van Duijvenvoorde, Dr. Kiki Zanolie, and Dr. Boya Li at the Institute of Psychology.

The project aims to advance academic equity for neurodiverse students by generating rigorous empirical evidence and developing inclusive, sustainable support strategies within higher education. Two PhD candidates will lead distinct but closely connected research lines: one focusing on ADHD, academic pressure, and assessment practices; the other on inclusive learning environments and innovative support strategies for students with ADHD. Both projects combine real-world research, methodological innovation, and co-creation with students and educators.

PhD position 1 investigates how students with ADHD experience academic pressure in assessment contexts, particularly the impact of timed examinations on stress, wellbeing, and performance. Using ecological momentary assessment, self-report, and physiological measures, the project critically evaluates the effectiveness of accommodations like extended exam time and their contribution to academic equity.

PhD position 2 explores how higher education can better support students with ADHD beyond assessment-related accommodations. This includes reducing stigma through psychoeducation for teachers, supporting self-regulated learning via peer-based groups, and examining AI-supported audio-learning tools to enhance engagement and reduce cognitive load. Mixed-methods and intervention designs will be used to evaluate the effectiveness and feasibility of these approaches.

Key responsibilities include designing and conducting innovative research studies in authentic higher-education settings, collecting and analyzing complex data, publishing results in international journals, developing teaching competencies through structured training, presenting findings at conferences, and contributing to science communication and knowledge valorization activities. PhD candidates will be embedded in the Graduate School and benefit from dual mentorship, supporting their development as independent scholars and reflective educators.

The Faculty of Social and Behavioural Sciences at Leiden University offers a diverse and inclusive academic environment, with opportunities for personal and professional development. The Institute of Psychology is dedicated to leading behavioral science research and education, fostering collaboration, interdisciplinarity, and open science. The faculty values diversity, inclusion, and the development of new generations of scholars equipped to address societal challenges.

Applicants must have a completed master’s degree or be in the final phase of completing a master’s degree (by 2026) in Psychology or a closely related field. Strong interest in academic equity, ADHD, and student wellbeing is required, along with excellent communication skills, a collaborative mindset, and openness to learning new skills. Experience with empirical research or applied educational settings is an asset, but motivation and teamwork are prioritized. Language proficiency in Dutch and English should be included in the CV.

The positions offer a competitive salary (€3059 - €3881 gross per month), holiday and end-of-year bonuses, pension scheme, full reimbursement of commuting costs, flexible working hours, options for sabbatical or paid parental leave, hybrid working, home-working allowance, and provision of a laptop and mobile phone. Teaching development is fully embedded in the PhD trajectory, with opportunities to obtain a University Teaching Qualification (BKO).

Applications are accepted until 26 March 2026. Submit your application via the provided link, including a letter of interest, CV, contact details of two referees, and a list of grades. For more information, contact Dr. Bianca Boyer at [email protected].