Stefaan Van Damme

Ghent University is offering a full-time PhD position in the Department of Experimental Clinical and Health Psychology, in collaboration with Maastricht University. The research project investigates how chronic pain affects the interaction between motor preparation and cognitive processes, using a multi-method approach that integrates behavioral, neurophysiological (EEG), and psychophysiological (pupillometry) methods within a Virtual Reality environment. The successful candidate will dedicate at least 90% of their time to academic research in preparation for a doctoral dissertation, support teaching activities, and contribute to service tasks within the research group. Applicants should hold a master’s degree in psychological sciences, cognitive neurosciences, or an equivalent field by the start of the appointment. Strong research skills, motivation, and practical experience with EEG research are highly recommended. The position requires a four-year commitment, openness to international mobility (including a research stay at Maastricht University), and motivation to obtain a PhD. Additional desirable qualities include prior participation in scientific symposia or conferences, independence, creativity, teamwork, and excellent communication skills in English. The fellowship is fully funded, with a salary based on family status and seniority, and is free of personal income tax. Staff benefits include training opportunities, generous holiday leave, and eco vouchers. The application deadline is October 31, 2025. Interested candidates should send their CV, diploma copy, and motivation letter to Prof. Stefaan Van Damme at [email protected]. For more details, visit the vacancy link.

Ghent University invites applications for a PhD Assistant position in the Department of Experimental Clinical & Health Psychology, focusing on medical and clinical health psychology. The role is based within the Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, offering a dynamic research and teaching environment at one of Belgium's leading universities. At least 50% of your assignment will be dedicated to academic research in preparation for a doctoral dissertation in medical and clinical health psychology. You will also contribute to teaching activities, including organizing and supervising seminars and practical sessions, evaluating assignments and examinations, and supervising master theses. Additional responsibilities include supporting internal and external departmental services. Applicants must hold a Master in Psychology with a specialization in Clinical Psychology or an equivalent qualification, fulfilled at the start of appointment. For diplomas awarded outside the European Union, a certificate of equivalence (NARIC) is required. Candidates should demonstrate a strong interest in scientific research in medical or clinical health psychology, familiarity with data collection and analysis, and enthusiasm for teaching. Teaching experience, participation in continuing education, conferences, and strong didactic, communication, and organizational skills are considered assets. Proficiency in Dutch is essential for supervising and assessing Dutch-speaking students. For foreign diplomas in languages other than Dutch, French, German, or English, a translation must be provided. The position offers a two-year appointment, renewable twice for two years, subject to positive evaluation, with a maximum term of six years. Remuneration is according to salary scale AAP3, and Ghent University provides a comprehensive benefits package, including training and education opportunities, 36 days of paid leave, bicycle commuting reimbursement, ecocheques, and more. Your appointment will start on 1 October 2026 at the earliest. The application deadline is 7 July 2026. Applications must be submitted online via the Ghent University e-recruitment system. Required documents include your CV and study results (merged PDF), cover letter (PDF), diploma transcript, and translation if applicable. For diplomas outside the EU, provide a certificate of equivalence or proof of application. Late or non-online applications will not be considered. For further information about the vacancy, contact Professor Stefaan Van Damme at [email protected]. For questions regarding the application process, consult the FAQ or contact [email protected]. Ghent University is committed to equal opportunities and diversity, encouraging all qualified candidates to apply.