2 PhD positions to investigate power, motivation, and goal pursuit processes

2 PhD positions to investigate power, motivation, and goal pursuit processes

The Chair of Organizational Behavior (Department of Management, Technology, and Economics (D-MTEC)) has openings for two PhD positions. The position will begin in early 2023 at an agreed-upon date.

Project background

Our chair investigates how people pursue their goals effectively and efficiently. We ask questions such as: How do people set goals? Why are some people more successful at focusing on their goals? How do people adapt their effort investment when pursuing goals? What can be done to improve goal pursuit and facilitate goal attainment? Much of our research examines how the experience of social power affects these processes.

Our approach integrates theory and methodology from social-cognitive psychology, organizational psychology, and psychophysiology. To address our research questions, we conduct laboratory, online, and field research using self-report measures, computer tasks, behavioral coding, eye-tracking, and psychophysiological methods such as electroencephalography (EEG) and electrocardiography (ECG).

Job description

You are expected to conduct research on topics that are relevant to the chair’s research focus. Research topics should focus on:

• basic motivational, cognitive, and/or psychophysiological processes with the use of experimental research methods in the laboratory, and/or
• cognition, motivation, and behaviour in the context of organizations

You will be required to present your research at national and international conferences, contribute to group tasks and activities, and publish research findings in international peer-reviewed scientific journals.

Your profile

• You should be highly self-motivated, independent, conscientious, and interested in pursuing an academic career.
• You are expected to have team spirit.
• You must hold a master’s degree in psychology, neuroscience, or a management discipline.
• Knowledge of social science research methods (experiments, surveys) and statistic software (e.g., SPSS, R) is requested.
• German language skills are not required, but proficiency in English is mandatory.

We offer

ETH Zurich is a family-friendly employer with excellent working conditions. You can look forward to an exciting working environment, cultural diversity, and attractive offers and benefits.

Working, teaching and research at ETH Zurich

We value diversity

In line with our values, ETH Zurich encourages an inclusive culture. We promote equality of opportunity, value diversity and nurture a working and learning environment in which the rights and dignity of all our staff and students are respected. Visit our

Equal Opportunities and Diversity website

to find out how we ensure a fair and open environment that allows everyone to grow and flourish.

Curious? So are we.

We are looking forward to receiving your online application with the following documents: 

• a cover letter stating your motivation for this position, relevant skills, and research interests
• your CV
• copies of your diplomas
• a writing sample (e.g., a paper/report, or draft of your Master’ thesis) and
• contact details of two references.

Please note that we exclusively accept applications submitted through our online application portal. Applications via email or postal services will not be considered.

For more information on our Chair, please visit our website  or contact Prof. Dr. Petra Schmid, by e-mail [email protected] (no applications).

About ETH Zürich

ETH Zurich is one of the world’s leading universities specialising in
science and technology. We are renowned for our excellent education,
cutting-edge fundamental research and direct transfer of new knowledge
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