1 PhD Research position on the neural basis of the time dynamics of emotions in relation to well-being and vulnerability to depression in Belgium | KU Leuven

The Research Group of Quantitative Psychology and Individual Differences is looking for a highly motivated candidate for a PhD position on the project ‘The neural basis of the time dynamics of emotions in relation to well-being and vulnerability to depression’ (PI’s and advisors: Dr. Philippe Verduyn, Prof. dr. Peter Kuppens, Prof dr. Philippe Fossati (Paris VI), and Prof. dr. Iven Van Mechelen).

The successful candidate will work in the Research Group of Quantitative Psychology and Individual Differences under the supervision of Philippe Verduyn, Peter Kuppens, Philippe Fossati, and Iven Van Mechelen. The group offers an international, productive, collaborative, and interactive environment with about 6 faculty and 26 graduate and postgraduate students. The University of Leuven is a research-oriented institution and is consistently ranked among the top research universities in Europe. Leuven is one of the oldest university towns in Europe, about 30 km from Brussels. It has a rich history and a unique friendly atmosphere.

The research project will be executed in collaboration with the Social and Affective Neuroscience team of the University Paris VI, France. This center comprises researchers and clinicians, at the interface of affective neuroscience, social neuroscience and psychiatry.

Project

The aim of the project is to chart patterns of changes in positive and negative emotions across time in relation to well-being and vulnerability to depression, and to identify the neural mechanisms that drive these changes. The planned research project consists of laboratory experiments both in and ouside an fMRI scanner.

Profile

The applicant must have a Master’s degree (or equivalent) in the behavioral sciences, biomedical sciences, or related areas, and excellent English communication and writing skills. Experience with neurophysiological research or emotion research is considered an asset. The position requires enrollment in the PhD-program of the Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences. International mobility is required as the research project encompasses a number of research visits to the University Paris VI, France.

Offer

We offer an encouraging daily guidance, excellent research facilities, a conference/travel budget, and a competitive salary with various additional benefits (in terms of holidays, health insurance, transport costs). The position is initially for 1 year, renewable up to a total of 4 years, and is expected to result in the completion of a PhD. The starting date is October 1st 2015 or as soon as possible thereafter.