PhD Bayesian Methods for Network Analysis of Longitudinal Psychometric Data

Are you interested in a PhD position that develops cutting-edge methodology for network analysis of longitudinal data? We are looking for a PhD candidate to take part in the research program on Bayesian graphical modeling.

Join us!
The psychological literature on network modeling is growing rapidly, and Bayesian statistics offers concrete solutions to outstanding methodological problems (e.g., Marsman, & Rhemtulla, 2022). The PhD student will develop new network models for longitudinal psychological data, Bayesian methods to analyze the new models, and implement the newly developed methods in open statistical software (i.e., R, C++, and JASP). In addition, the candidate will work on eliciting meaningful prior distributions for network structures and parameters based on prior research, collaborate with substantive researchers who wish to apply the new methodology to their existing datasets, and work with the Bayesian Graphical Modeling Lab to disseminate the new methodology through review, guideline, and tutorial papers (e.g., Huth, et al., 2023; Sekulovski et al., 2024; van Doorn, et al, 2021) and workshops (e.g., the Psychological Networks Amsterdam Summer and Winter Schools).

What are you going to do
You will:

• conduct PhD research in Bayesian methodology for network analysis (i.e., derive new models, develop Bayesian methods for their analysis, and implement these developments in software);
• regularly present research results at (international) workshops and conferences, and publish them in international journals;
• complete academic work leading to a PhD thesis to be defended at the Faculty of Social and Behavioral Sciences of the University of Amsterdam with the aim of obtaining a PhD;
• make Amsterdam (or a location within commuting distance) your primary residence for the duration of the PhD project.

What do you have to offer
For this position, it is essential that you have:

• a Master's, Research Master's, or equivalent degree with specialization in psychological methods, psychometrics, statistics, or a related discipline. The degree must be completed by the start of your employment;
• a serious interest in mathematical or computational statistics;
• excellent verbal and written communication skills in English;
• excellent programming skills in R;
• excellent interpersonal and organizational skills;
• experience with Bayesian methods.

It is also essential that you make Amsterdam (or a location within commuting distance) your primary residence for the duration of the PhD project.

It is also desirable (but not essential) that you have:

• programming experience in C, C++, or JASP;
• experience with network- and longitudinal or time-series models;
• experience with computational statistical methods, including Expectation-Maximization algorithms and Markov chain Monte Carlo.

Please note that knowledge of the Dutch language is not required for this position, nor is it required for being able to live in Amsterdam.

What else do we offer

• a position in which initiative and input are highly valued;
• an enthusiastic and warm team that is open to new colleagues;
• an inspiring academic and international working environment in the heart of Amsterdam.

At this department you will be working
The PhD project will be conducted within the Psychological Methods program group at the University of Amsterdam, which is one of the largest and most successful research centers in the field of psychological methods. Its main areas of research are network analysis, Bayesian statistics, mathematical psychology, and psychometrics. Next to developing novel research methodologies, we also actively develop psychological theories on a variety of topics, including intelligence, psychopathology, and decision making. The group has a general focus on supporting open science and has made important methodological contributions to facilitate transparent research practices in the past decade.

The Bayesian Graphical Modeling lab is part of the Psychological Methods program group, and its research program brings together the research areas of network analysis, Bayesian statistics, and psychometrics.

Do you recognize yourself in the job profile? Then we look forward to receiving your application by January 5th, 2025. You may apply online by using the link below.

Applications in .pdf should include:

• a curriculum vitae;
• a letter of motivation (max. 1 page);
• any other required information.

The UvA is an equal-opportunity employer. We prioritise diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for everyone. We value a spirit of enquiry and perseverance, provide the space to keep asking questions, and promote a culture of curiosity and creativity.

No agencies please.

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