About the opportunity
The Department of Psychology at the University of Southern Denmark (SDU) is seeking a PhD fellow to join the ‘Understanding Experiences of Mood Disturbances in Depression’ (DEPMOOD) project. This interdisciplinary research initiative, led by Anthony Vincent Fernandez, combines philosophical and qualitative methods to characterize mood disturbances. The successful candidate will contribute to the analysis of empirical interview data using philosophical frameworks. Based at the Odense campus within the Applied and Interdisciplinary Phenomenology research group, the fellow will receive support for academic skill development, including teaching, grant-writing, and organizing academic events. The position is a full-time, three-year appointment starting September 1, 2027, or as soon as possible thereafter.
Salary and benefits
- Full-time salary according to the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations (AC) agreement, with a base salary of DKK 374,912.98 per year (excluding 18.07% pension contribution).
- Dedicated workspace and work computer at the Department of Psychology.
- Annual travel allowance of DKK 10,000, with potential for additional funding.
- Support for professional development, including research, teaching, and academic networking skills.
- Integration into an interdisciplinary research environment with international collaborators.
Who can apply?
- Master's degree (M.A., MSc, etc.) in philosophy or a related field by September 1, 2027.
- Total course credits equivalent to 300 ECTS (typically five years of combined bachelor's and master's study).
- Background in philosophy of psychiatry, philosophy of emotion, and/or phenomenology.
- Proficiency in English.
- Familiarity with qualitative research methods is an advantage but not required.
Required documents
- Letter of interest, motivation, and qualifications (max 2 pages).
- Detailed CV including contact information and list of publications or presentations.
- Certified copy of diploma and transcripts (or supervisor letter confirming expected completion).
- Writing sample of maximum 10,000 words.
- Document listing 2-3 references with contact information and relationship details.
When to apply
- Application deadline: 2027-01-15.
- Interviews are expected to be conducted within two months of the closing date.
How to apply
- Prepare all required documents in English or with certified English translations.
- Submit the application electronically via the official 'Apply now' link on the SDU job portal.
- Ensure all attached files are in Adobe PDF format.
- Do not use generative AI in the formulation of application materials.
Additional information
- The PhD degree will be awarded by the Faculty of Health Sciences at SDU.
- The PhD student will be required to take PhD courses, conduct an international research stay, and fulfill teaching duties.
- Reference letters will only be requested for candidates invited to interview.
- Application materials may be shared with external project partners at Aarhus University and Amsterdam University Medical Center for evaluation purposes.
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Candidates with a strong academic foundation in phenomenology or the philosophy of psychiatry who are eager to apply these theories to empirical data.
- Researchers interested in interdisciplinary collaboration, as the role involves working with psychologists, psychiatrists, and international partners.
- Individuals seeking a structured academic environment that provides specific training in grant-writing, teaching, and organizing academic events.
What should you think carefully about?
- The role requires a specific focus on the DEPMOOD project's empirical dataset, which may limit the scope of independent research compared to a traditional, self-defined PhD project.
- Applicants must be prepared to relocate to Odense, Denmark, as the position is based at the SDU campus.
- The position requires a commitment to teaching duties and an international research stay, which should be factored into your long-term academic planning.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This fellowship is an excellent opportunity for early-career researchers aiming to bridge the gap between theoretical philosophy and empirical health research. It provides a stable, fully funded environment to complete a PhD while gaining practical experience in a high-profile, externally funded project. The emphasis on professional development—such as grant-writing and conference organization—makes this a strong stepping stone for those targeting a future career in academia or interdisciplinary research.
Our take
This position is ideal for philosophy graduates with an interest in mental health and phenomenology who want to work within a collaborative, well-supported research group. It is less suitable for those who prefer complete autonomy over their research topic or who are not interested in engaging with qualitative empirical data.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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