Join the University of Bern: An Opportunity for Ambitious Researchers
The University of Bern is a hub of innovation and excellence. Here, you will have the chance to deliver top performance and test your skills alongside some of the best in the field.
Start Date
September 1, 2026
Employment Relationship
4 years
Institution / Workplace
Institute for Psychology, Psychology of Digitalisation
Project Description / Your Role
This PhD position is funded by the Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF) as part of the project "Quantifying Effect Size Inflation in Clinical Psychology Trials" (QUEST). This meta-science project examines the impact of Questionable Measurement Practices (e.g., 'jingle' fallacy) and Questionable Research Practices (e.g., outcome switching) on the efficacy estimates of psychotherapy across various domains in clinical psychology. The project applies a multi-method approach, which includes:
- Reanalysis of Individual Participant Data Meta-Analysis datasets
- Synthetic data generated from fine-tuned Large Language Models
- New primary data collection
- Monte Carlo simulation studies
As a PhD researcher, you will engage with all stages of the QUEST project, from study design and data collection to analysis and publication. You will collaborate with a postdoc and a research assistant also involved in the project. This role provides a unique opportunity to develop expertise in advanced quantitative methods and meta-science, as well as the chance to pursue independent research questions related to the project themes under the guidance of the principal investigators. Teaching opportunities are available in English and/or German.
Your Profile
- Education: A Master's degree in Psychology, Research Methods, Statistics, or a related field
- Technical Skills: Strong working knowledge of R for data management and statistical analysis
- Statistical Knowledge: Familiarity with advanced statistical methods (e.g., multilevel models, Confirmatory Factor Analysis, and/or Monte Carlo simulations)
- Research Interests: A deep interest in meta-science and research methodology
- Language: Strong written and spoken English
- Availability: Willingness to commute or relocate to Bern, Switzerland. This is an in-person position; remote work is not available.
What We Offer / Diversity & Inclusion
- Competitive Salary: Gross CHF 53,000/year including a 13th month (~ EUR 57,400 / USD 67,000), plus employer contributions to the Swiss state pension (AHV).
- Funding: Four years of funding are available at a 100% FTE.
- Support for International Hires: We have experience assisting international hires with the process of applying for a residence permit (B-permit) through employment.
- Language Environment: An English-speaking research group.
- Quality of Life: Bern is one of the safest cities in the world, known for its walkability, UNESCO-listed status, excellent public transport, outdoor recreation, and vibrant international academic community. Switzerland consistently ranks high for quality of life.
- Career Development: Access to training in research methods, scientific writing, and university pedagogy. Opportunities for collaboration with approximately 10 other researchers, postdocs, and faculty in our research group. Teaching experience opportunities available (in English or German).
We explicitly encourage applications from women and candidates from underrepresented backgrounds in academia.
Your Benefits
- Quality of life
- Collaborative environment and ambitious team
- Central location in the heart of Bern
- University sports
Working at the University of Bern
The University of Bern not only offers exciting tasks but also an environment that actively promotes development, diversity, and equal opportunities. Discover what makes us an outstanding employer and how you can grow with us.
Application and Contact
Apply online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.
Questions about the Position?
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