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

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.

The Faculty of Psychology is one of seven faculties of the oldest university in Switzerland. With our core focus on Society & Choice and Health & Interventions, we are successful both nationally and internationally in our research and study programs. The Center of Digital Lives researches the everyday digital life from a psychological perspective and investigates how digital media use in everyday life (e.g. via smartphones, social media, AI-based chatbots) changes well-being and social relationships. The center strives to map and research the complexity of everyday digital life and has an interdisciplinary focus. We research media use and its effects in the family context and digital media use for coping with stress.

• 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.