PhD in Media Psychology with a focus on AI chatbot use and social relationships

Your Tasks

• Coordinate and manage the two-wave panel study of the collaborative project


• Collaborate with the project partners in Karlsruhe and Zürich to write project reports


• Conceptualize, design, conduct, and analyze research studies with a focus on vulnerable populations who use AI chatbots for their social support and coping needs in times of stress


• Document and present research findings in English and German in the form of publications and presentations


• Contribute to teaching activities (e.g., seminars, tutorials, examinations)


• Supervise students (e.g., bachelor’s and master’s theses)


• Contribute to organizational tasks within the Center of Digital Lives


• We value close collaboration within the research group and therefore expect regular on-site presence, typically several days per week

Your Profile

• You have a very good master degree in Psychology, Communication Science, or a closely-related discipline.


• You are interested in digital media use and media effects in everyday life and are enthusiastic about investigating the impact AI chatbots have on social relationships and user well-being among different populations.


• You have excellent knowledge of research methods and statistics and are interested in learning new methods and statistical approaches; experience in working with longitudinal designs is a plus.


• You can analyze datasets using R or are willing to learn R quickly.


• You are proficient in English and German, including the ability to develop research materials in German, write academic papers in English, and teach in at least one of the two languages. Knowledge in French, Telugu or another Indian language are an asset.


• You are organized, proactive and able to work independently and reliably.

We offer you...

• Joining a new and dynamic team and working on highly topical issues


• Involvement in the research group’s projects as well as national and international collaboration opportunities


• Participation in an active doctoral program in the research area Society & Choice, with opportunities to attend courses, seminars, and guest lectures 


• Employment conditions according to university guidelines for doctoral candidates


• The position is initially limited to 1 year. Upon positive evaluation, the position will be extended for an additional 2 years. A fourth year depends on funding availability.


• Basel is situated in Switzerland, at the borders to France and Germany. It's a vibrant and welcoming city, and an excellent place to live and work. Quality of life, health care, and public transportation meet the highest standards


• The University of Basel stands for excellence through diversity and is committed to equal opportunities and family-friendliness.