PhD Student (cand doc) Geneva Motivation Lab
We are looking for a PhD student for a research project on “Feedback, Effort, and Performance: A psychophysiological approach”. The project is funded by the Swiss National Science Foundation for a period of four years.
Project summary:
This project investigates how response feedback during cognitive tasks influences the intensity of mental effort and cognitive performance by influencing persons’ affective states. Experimental studies will investigate effort intensity assessed as performance-related changes in cardiac activity. For more details about our general research paradigm, please consult: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11229-025-05043-1 and https://doi.org/10.1177/17540739241303506.
Eligibility:
To be eligible for the PhD position, you must demonstrate outstanding academic qualities and be highly motivated to complete a PhD in 4 years. You should hold a Master degree (or an equivalent degree) in psychology (or a closely related field). You should be fluent in French and English. Experience in experimental research and quantitative data analysis are necessary and familiarity with psychophysiological methods would be advantageous.
Funding notes:
PhD salary according to the Swiss National Science Foundation rates for four years (CHF 50’000 – CHF 55’000 per year). The ideal starting date would be January 2026. Please visit www.unige.ch/motivation for more information on the research activities of the Geneva Motivation Lab.
How to apply:
If you would like to apply, please email a single PDF file including a cover letter (explaining your interest in the project), an academic curriculum vitae, and – if possible – a reference letter from a referee with knowledge of your academic suitability for undertaking a PhD to Prof. Guido Gendolla (guido.gendolla@unige.ch). The closing date for applications is the 21st November 2025. However, we review all applications on a rolling basis and therefore advise you to apply as soon as possible. For informal inquiries, please contact Prof. Guido Gendolla by email (guido.gendolla@unige.ch).