PhD Position (m/f/d) (75%, E 13 TV-L) limited to 3 years

The Hector Research Institute of Education Sciences and Psychology at the University of Tübingen invites applications for the following position to be filled as soon as possible:

PhD Position (m/f/d)
(75%, E 13 TV-L) limited to 3 years

We are seeking an excellent doctoral student who is motivated to work on research on AI-based feedback systems for educational materials. The successful candidate will join the project “Instant Instructor Insights (I³): AI Feedback for Effective and Engaging Digital Learning Materials” within the Motivation Science Lab (https://motivationsciencelab.com/). The project aims to investigate how psychological processes such as curiosity and engagement unfold during text reading by utilizing Large Language Models (LLMs) to analyze the semantic structure of learning materials. This research will focus on validating metrics for assessing educational content quality through a scientific approach grounded in psychological theories of learning and motivation. We are seeking applicants from any of the following (or related) fields: psychology, cognitive science, educational science, with interest in applying computational approaches to psychological/education research. We especially give priority to candidates with a strong background in psychological theories of learning and motivation, combined with experience or interest in using LLMs and other computational methods to study learning processes. The successful candidate is expected to work on the I³ project with Prof. Dr. Kou Murayama and Dr. Manuel Hopp. The expected start date is September 2025, but it can be adjusted depending on the candidates’ individual circumstances.

What we expect from you

• Master’s degree in psychology, education sciences, cognitive science, or a related field with excellent grades and a strong interest in research from interdisciplinary perspectives are encouraged to apply.
• Proven interest in human learning and motivation theories (especially in relation to education research), as well as an openness to exploring how these can be implemented through computational approaches including Large Language Models (LLMs).
• While technical skills are valuable, the primary qualification is a deep understanding of psychological mechanisms that underpin effective learning and engagement.
• Some experience and interest in quantitative research methodologies (using R, Python, etc.).
• Some proficiency in German language is also desirable.

What we can offer you

• Close collaboration, mentoring, and professional development from a supervisory team.
• Work with an inspiring, multidisciplinary, and international team that includes many other talented PhD students.
• Supportive environment to enable presentations at national and international conferences and publications in highly ranked journals to advance an (international) academic career.
• Opportunities for interdisciplinary and international exchange programs (e.g., lab visits).
• Access to the LEAD Graduate School & Research Network.
• A 75% TV-L E13 contract, limited to three years. According to the general pay scale of German universities, this corresponds to a monthly salary of at least EUR 3,472.31 (75% position, gross pay, before tax). After taxes as a single (i.e. not married or living with a life partner; no children), the monthly salary is at least EUR 2,221.8 (net salary after taxes and health insurance payments). Your income will increase regularly if you remain employed. Information regarding cost of living in Tübingen: https://tuebingenresearchcampus.com/tuebingen/

For further inquiries about the position, please reach out to Professor Dr. Kou Murayama (k.murayama@uni-tuebingen.de).

The Hector Research Institute of Education Sciences and Psychology is an intra-university research institute at the University of Tübingen that investigates individual, social, and institutional determinants of learning and educational processes. We employ a wide range of methodological approaches, from large-scale assessments and longitudinal studies to laboratory experiments and randomized field studies. Our close collaboration with schools and educational institutions enables us to provide evidence-based insights for improving the education landscape. Nationally and internationally, our research institute is one of the leading centres for empirical educational research. As an interdisciplinary team, we work in a well-equipped building located directly adjacent to Tübingen’s historic old town. More information about us and our institute can be found at www.hib.uni-tuebingen.de.

We hope to have sparked your interest and invite you to submit your complete and compelling application (including: cover letter detailing (1) your expertise and methodological skills and (2) a reason why you are interested in the position, a CV, contact information of two references who can be contacted before interview, degree and other certificates with transcripts) as a single PDF document, referencing “PhD I3 Project”, by May 4, 2025, via email to: jobs@hib.uni-tuebingen.de.

Applications from equally qualified candidates with disabilities will be given preference. The University of Tübingen is committed to equal opportunities and diversity. It therefore takes individual life situations into account and asks for relevant information. The University seeks to raise the number of women in research and teaching and therefore urges qualified women to apply.

Employment will be officially organized by the central university administration.