The Department of Psychology at Utrecht University is seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher to join the AttentionLab for a one-year position starting in October 2026. The successful candidate will contribute to an internationally visible VICI project investigating how pupil dynamics reflect visual attention and cognitive processing. You will work in a multidisciplinary team using cutting-edge experimental methods, including eye tracking, pupillometry and behavioural paradigms, to advance our understanding of human attention.
As a postdoctoral researcher, you will join the AttentionLab within the Department of Experimental Psychology. You will play a central role in a VICI-funded research programme investigating the relationship between pupil dynamics, visual attention and cognitive processing.
Your responsibilities include:
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designing, programming and conducting behavioural and pupillometry experiments;
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collecting, processing and analysing eye-tracking and pupil data;
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contributing to the development of new experimental paradigms for studying attention;
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collaborating with PhD candidates and other researchers within the AttentionLab;
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supervising research assistants and MSc students where appropriate;
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presenting research findings at international conferences and publishing results in leading scientific journals.
We are looking for a candidate who:
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holds a PhD in Cognitive Psychology, Experimental Psychology, Neuroscience or a closely related discipline;
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has experience with experimental research on perception, attention or cognitive processes;
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has experience with eye tracking, pupillometry or related psychophysiological methods, or is eager to acquire these techniques;
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has strong quantitative and statistical skills (preferably using R and/or Python);
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demonstrates scientific creativity and enjoys developing innovative experimental paradigms;
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has an excellent publication record relative to career stage;
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communicates effectively in spoken and written English;
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enjoys working independently while contributing to an enthusiastic and collaborative research team.
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a temporary job for 12 months;
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a working week of 36 - 40 hours and a gross monthly salary between € 3.546 and €5.538 in the case of full-time employment (salary scale 10 under the Collective Labour Agreement for Dutch Universities (CAO NU));
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8% holiday pay and 8.3% year-end bonus;
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a pension scheme, partially paid parental leave and flexible terms of employment based on the CAO NU.
In addition to the terms of employment laid down in the CAO NU, Utrecht University also offers a range of its own schemes for employees. This includes arrangements for professional development, various types of leave, and options for sports and cultural activities. You can also tailor your employment conditions through our Terms of Employment Options Model. In this way, we encourage you to keep investing in your personal and professional development. For more information, please visit Working at Utrecht University.
A better future for everyone. This ambition motivates our scientists in executing their leading research and inspiring teaching. At Utrecht University, the various disciplines collaborate intensively towards major strategic themes. Our focus is on Dynamics of Youth, Institutions for Open Societies, Life Sciences and Pathways to Sustainability. Sharing science, shaping tomorrow.
The Faculty of Social and Behavioural Sciences is one of the leading faculties in Europe providing research and academic teaching in cultural anthropology, educational sciences, interdisciplinary social science, pedagogical sciences, psychology, and sociology. Almost 7,000 students are enrolled in a broad range of undergraduate and graduate programmes. The Faculty of Social and Behavioural Sciences has some 1,100 faculty and staff members, all providing their individual contribution to the training and education of young talent and to the research into and finding solutions for scientific and societal issues.
The faculty is located at Utrecht Science Park near the historical city centre of Utrecht.
For more information, please contact prof. dr. Stefan van der Stigchel at [email protected]
Candidates for this vacancy will be recruited by Utrecht University.
As Utrecht University, we want to be a home for everyone. We value staff with diverse backgrounds, perspectives and identities, including cultural, religious or ethnic background, gender, sexual orientation, disability or age. We strive to create a safe and inclusive environment in which everyone can flourish and contribute.
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To apply, please send your curriculum vitae, including a letter of motivation, via the ‘apply now’ button.
The preferred startingdate is October 1st, 2026.
