The Leibniz Institute for Psychology Information (ZPID) in Trier (Germany) is an internationally recognized research-based psychology service center located in Trier (Germany) and belongs to the Leibniz Association. ZPID puts a strong emphasis on open science and is currently establishing research groups in science reception, psychological meta-science, and big data in psychology.

The position is part of a social-psychological research project Prof. Dr. Kai Sassenberg will conduct in collaboration with Dr. Lotte Pummerer (Universität Mannheim). The aim is to examine the impact of negative emotions on the formation of conspiracy beliefs, applying appraisal theories of emotion and emotion regulation approaches. The position will be located in the Social Influence Lab at ZPID.

The project is part of the DFG Research Unit “Beyond Crazy: Integrating Benefits into the Analysis of Conspiracy Beliefs” and is thus integrated into a larger, interdisciplinary research network. This includes regular academic exchange with doctoral students and professors from the participating institutions at other locations, as well as participation in joint conferences and workshops. Candidates interested in applying to multiple subprojects within the research unit are welcome to do so. A single application is sufficient; candidates should simply list the subprojects in order of preference. The application must be submitted to each institution offering a subproject for which the candidate wishes to be considered.

Tasks:

• Developing, preparing, and conducting studies
• Analyzing data and documenting results
• Writing manuscript for publication
• Supervising research assistants

• MSc in psychology (or a related field)
• Interest or a background in emotion regulation and conspiracy beliefs
• Experience in quantitative research and data analysis
• Strong background in psychological methods and statistics
• Strong English language skills (spoken and written), knowledge of German is an advantage

We offer:

• An exciting scientific environment – locally and in the research unit
• Room for your own research ideas
• Excellent teamwork in a friendly and collegial atmosphere
• Family-friendly working conditions (certified by Audit berufundfamilie)
• Flexible hours and partial remote work
• Salary according to TV-L pay group E 13, including an annual special payment
• Supplementary pension scheme (VBL)
• Company health management
• Access to the facilities of Trier University

and upload the following documents (until November 25, 2026):

• Cover letter addressing the motivation for the application
• CV
• Relevant certificates of degree(s)
• Two references or names and contact details from people who are willing to provide a reference

Please get in touch with Kai Sassenberg (ksa@leibniz-psychology.org) for further information on this position.

ZPID is highly committed to the employment of people with disabilities. Severely disabled applicants are given preferential consideration provided they are qualified for the position. We welcome applications from all suitably qualified applicants irrespective of nationality, ethnic and social origin, religion or belief, age, or sexual orientation and identity.
We observe guidelines regarding laws and regulations governing part-time employment.

When applying for a position at ZPID, you will submit personal data. Please refer to our data protection statement in accordance with Art. 13 of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) regarding the collection and processing of personal data as part of your online application at our website. With submitting your application, you acknowledge that you have reviewed ZPID's data protection statement.

Please note that online applications will only be accepted until November 25, 2026 via the following URL: