About the opportunity
The Chair of Developmental Psychology at Ruhr-Universität Bochum is seeking a research associate for a fixed-term, 75% part-time position (29.87 hours/week) to contribute to a longitudinal study on episodic memory development in children aged 3 to 5. This project is part of the interdisciplinary Collaborative Research Centre (CRC) ‘Episodic Memory,’ which integrates psychology, computational neuroscience, and philosophy. The successful candidate will work in a modern research environment at the THINK building in Bochum, with opportunities for interdisciplinary training and scientific qualification through a cumulative PhD. The position is subject to final funding approval and offers a collaborative, international team setting.
Salary and benefits
- Salaried position based on the TV-L collective agreement (pay grade E 13 TV-L)
- Opportunity for scientific qualification through a cumulative PhD
- Access to interdisciplinary training and research initiatives
- Modern research facilities at the THINK building, including childcare and parent-child offices
- Supportive, international, and collegial research environment
Who can apply?
- Master’s degree in Psychology or a closely related field
- Strong interest in developmental psychology research on memory
- Fluent proficiency in German and English (written and spoken)
- Excellent methodological, programming, and statistical skills
- Highly motivated team player with proactive problem-solving abilities
- Enthusiasm for interacting with parents and children in a research context
Required documents
- Cover letter
- Curriculum vitae (tabular)
- Relevant certificates (e.g., academic degrees, employment references)
When to apply
- Application deadline: 2026-10-26
- Start date: 2027-01-01 (pending funding approval)
How to apply
- Prepare required documents including cover letter, CV, and certificates
- Submit application via the official online portal
- Reference number ANR 6187 must be mentioned in the application
Additional information
- The position is fixed-term until 31.12.2030
- No teaching obligation if funded by third-party funds
- RUB provides free language courses for employees
- Travel and interview costs cannot be reimbursed
- The Staff Council may participate in selection interviews upon candidate request
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 background in developmental psychology and a specific interest in memory research will find this project highly relevant.
- Individuals who enjoy working directly with children and families in a research setting will be well-suited for the longitudinal study requirements.
- Researchers seeking an interdisciplinary environment that bridges psychology, neuroscience, and philosophy will benefit from the CRC's collaborative structure.
What should you think carefully about?
- The position is a 75% part-time role, which may impact total compensation compared to a full-time position.
- The role is fixed-term until the end of the project in 2030, which is a standard but finite academic commitment.
- Applicants must be comfortable working in both German and English, as both are campus languages and required for the role.
- The position is subject to final third-party funding approval, which is a standard but important administrative detail to note.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This position is an excellent opportunity for an early-career researcher aiming to complete a cumulative PhD within a well-funded, interdisciplinary Collaborative Research Centre. It provides a stable, multi-year research environment that supports both academic qualification and professional networking in a leading German university.
Our take
This role is ideal for psychology graduates with strong methodological and programming skills who are eager to pursue a PhD in a collaborative, child-focused research project. Candidates who prefer a highly interdisciplinary and international research environment should prioritize this application.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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