PhD Position: The Effects and Mechanisms of Slow Breathing on Stress Recovery

The Research Group Health Psychology at the Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, KU Leuven, is offering a full-time PhD position focused on the effects and mechanisms of slow breathing on stress recovery. The group investigates the interaction between psychological and somatic variables in health and disease, using a biopsychosocial perspective. Research themes include dyspnea (breathlessness), pain, psychophysiology, stress, interoception, and symptom perception, with a strong emphasis on controlled experiments and interdisciplinary collaboration. The group is closely connected with international research partners and clinical institutions such as University Hospital Leuven. This project aims to explore whether and how slow breathing can enhance stress recovery, both immediately after an exercise and as a long-term effect of daily practice. The PhD student will conduct experimental studies measuring self-reported stress, peripheral physiological responses, and neural dynamics using EEG. The research will contribute to understanding the mechanisms underlying stress reduction and resilience, and findings will be disseminated through international peer-reviewed journals and scientific conferences. The project will culminate in a PhD thesis to be defended at the end of the research period. Applicants should have or expect to obtain a Master’s Degree in psychology by July 2026, with good academic performance. A strong affinity for research on stress, stress reduction interventions, and symptom perception is required, along with interest or background in psychophysiology and experimental studies. Excellent data analytic skills and proficiency in English (verbal and academic writing) are essential. Candidates should demonstrate teamwork, independence, organizational skills, flexibility, proactivity, analytical and critical thinking, and curiosity. The position offers a 1-year full-time contract, extendable up to 4 years upon positive evaluation. Remuneration is provided in Salary scale 43, with excellent working conditions, professional development opportunities through the KU Leuven doctoral school program and YouReCa, and participation in conferences, workshops, teaching, and interdisciplinary research. KU Leuven is committed to diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunity, providing a supportive and respectful environment for all. Applications should be submitted online via the KU Leuven jobsite before March 23, 2026. Interviews will be held in April, and the anticipated start date is between May 1st and October 15th, 2026. For further information, contact Prof. Dr. Ilse Van Diest or Dr. Valentina Jelinčić by email. For details on working conditions and doctoral school programs, visit the provided links.