Maastricht University is inviting applications for a fully funded PhD Candidate position focused on Reducing avoidance by altering threat imagery in panic disorder. This interdisciplinary research project sits at the intersection of experimental psychopathology, cognitive neuroscience, and clinical intervention development.
PhD Position in Psychology & Neuroscience at Maastricht University: Reducing Avoidance in Panic Disorder
Position Summary
Distressing flashbacks and flashforwards are significant drivers of avoidance behavior in panic disorder. This doctoral research project explores whether imagery rescripting techniques can alter threat imagery and reduce avoidance. The successful candidate will join an international, collaborative research network spanning Maastricht University, Utrecht University, Mondriaan Mental Health Center, Oxford University, and KU Leuven, alongside joining the Dutch-Flemish Postgraduate School ‘Experimental Psychopathology’ (EPP).
Key Details Overview
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Designation | PhD Candidate / Doctoral Researcher |
| Host Institution | Maastricht University |
| Faculty / Department | Faculty of Psychology and Neuroscience (FPN) |
| Research Area | Clinical Psychology, Experimental Psychopathology, Cognitive Neuroscience |
| Employment Type | Part-time (0.8 FTE), 1-year initial contract extendable up to 4 years |
| Remuneration / Salary | €3,204 to €4,051 gross per month (based on 1.0 FTE) + 8% holiday allowance + 8.3% end-of-year bonus |
| Location | Maastricht, Netherlands |
| Application Deadline | October 4, 2026 |
Research Area & Project Description
The PhD project aims to combine fundamental learning theory with therapeutic innovations to advance treatments for anxiety-related conditions. As a PhD researcher on this team, your duties will include:
- Designing and conducting qualitative and quantitative experimental studies using a CO2 inhalation procedure.
- Translating laboratory findings into single-case experimental designs (SCED).
- Recruiting and testing both panic-prone individuals and clinical participants diagnosed with panic disorder.
- Applying advanced statistical methods, repeated-measures analysis, and computational modelling to SCED data.
- Publishing scientific articles in peer-reviewed international journals and presenting findings at global conferences.
- Upholding open science practices and rigorous research methodologies.
Eligibility & Qualifications
Candidates must fulfill the following criteria to be considered:
- Academic Background: A completed (Research) Master’s degree in Psychology, Health Sciences, Biomedical Sciences, Cognitive Neuroscience, or a closely related discipline.
- Research Experience: Demonstrated background in designing and conducting experimental procedures, collecting data, and formulating scientific research questions.
- Technical & Analytical Skills: Experience or strong affinity with programming computer-based experimental tasks, quantitative data analysis, computational modelling, or single-case experimental designs (SCED).
- Clinical Affinity: A keen interest in clinical psychology, panic disorder, and psychological intervention mechanisms.
- Language Skills: Excellent written and verbal English communication skills. Proficiency in Dutch is considered a strong advantage for clinical participant interaction.
Scholarship & Employment Benefits
- A gross monthly salary ranging from €3,204 to €4,051 (full-time basis).
- Annual 8% holiday allowance and an 8.3% end-of-year bonus.
- 29 vacation days per year (based on full-time employment) plus public holidays and compensation leave options.
- Comprehensive pension scheme (ABP), university sports facilities, and professional development programs through the Dutch-Flemish Postgraduate School ‘Experimental Psychopathology’.
How to Apply
Interested applicants should prepare and submit their application package online containing the following documents:
- A detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- A formal Motivation Letter highlighting your fit for the research project.
- Official academic transcripts (Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees).
- Contact details of at least two academic referees (recommendation letters are optional).
For informal inquiries about the project, you may contact Prof. Dr. Iris Engelhard (iris.engelhard@maastrichtuniversity.nl) or Dr. Pauline Dibbets (pauline.dibbets@maastrichtuniversity.nl).
Important Dates & Application Link
- Last Date for Apply: October 4, 2026
- Preferred Starting Date: Late November 2026
To submit your application, visit the official recruitment portal via the link below:
Apply Online at Maastricht University Job Portal
