About the opportunity
The Department of Medical Psychology and Medical Sociology at Ruhr-Universität Bochum is seeking a student assistant (SHK) to join subproject A10, ‘Pain-related memory processes in the context of empathic perspective taking,’ embedded within Collaborative Research Centre 1280 ‘Extinction Learning.’ The research project investigates how recalling personal pain experiences influences empathic perspective taking for others’ pain by combining an experimental pain paradigm with functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). The appointed student assistant will support the research team during the active data collection phase across university facilities in Bochum.
Salary and benefits
- Hourly wage of €15.20 under § 6 of the German Academic Fixed-Term Contract Act (WissZeitVG)
- Flexible part-time schedule of 5 to 8.5 hours per week
- Hands-on practical experience conducting experimental fMRI studies and working with study participants
- Valuable direct insight into an ongoing neuroscience research project within Collaborative Research Centre 1280
- Collaborative experience in an appreciative team at one of Germany's leading research universities
Who can apply?
- Current enrollment as a university student eligible for a student assistant position under § 6 WissZeitVG
- High level of reliability and scheduling flexibility
- Availability to support MRI sessions, which primarily occur on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays (typically 1 to 2 days per week)
- Good proficiency in German
- Genuine interest in experimental research, specifically in pain, empathy, and memory
- Enjoyment and ease in interacting directly with research study participants
Required documents
- Cover letter citing reference number ANR 6238
- Tabular curriculum vitae (CV)
- Relevant academic certificates and credentials (such as degree certificates, transcripts, or employment references)
When to apply
- Application deadline: October 28, 2026
- Target start date: As soon as possible following the selection process
How to apply
- Prepare your application documents (cover letter, CV, and certificates) quoting vacancy reference number ANR 6238
- Submit your application materials online via the official Ruhr-Universität Bochum application portal before October 28, 2026
- Direct any informal role inquiries to Lisa Marie Mohr (+49 234 32 18771) or Bettina van Heek (+49 234 32 12598)
Additional information
- The position is offered on a fixed-term contract for one year
- Work takes place at the Institute for Research and Teaching (Gudrunstr. 56, 44791 Bochum) and the Department of Medical Psychology and Medical Sociology on the main university campus (Universitätsstr. 150, 44801 Bochum)
- Travel, accommodation, and related interview expenses cannot be reimbursed by the university
- Ruhr-Universität Bochum actively encourages applications from qualified women and individuals with disabilities
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…
- Undergraduate or master's students in psychology, neuroscience, cognitive science, or medicine seeking practical laboratory credentials alongside their degree
- Applicants with strong interpersonal communication skills who feel comfortable conducting participant phone screenings and in-person briefings
- Candidates based in or near Bochum with university schedules that accommodate laboratory sessions on Mondays, Tuesdays, or Thursdays
What should you think carefully about?
- With 5 to 8.5 hours per week at €15.20 per hour, this role serves as a supplementary student job rather than a primary source of living funding
- The role requires physical on-site presence at university facilities in Bochum during designated daytime scanning slots, precluding remote work
- Fluency in German is practically mandatory due to regular verbal interaction with German-speaking research subjects during intake and testing
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This position aligns smoothly with the academic plans of enrolled students aiming to build foundational research skills in cognitive neuroscience and medical psychology. By participating directly in fMRI study execution and participant management within a collaborative research centre, students gain demonstrable laboratory experience that strengthens applications for subsequent master's theses, research internships, or doctoral programs.
Our take
An appealing student research appointment for Bochum-area university students seeking entry-level neuroimaging and data collection experience, but unsuitable for non-students or those unable to commit to on-site testing shifts on weekdays.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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