PhD position at the intersection of social, cognitive, and organizational psychology

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

The Chair of Organizational Behavior (Department of Management, Technology, and Economics) is looking for a PhD student to work on research projects at the intersection of social, cognitive, and organizational psychology. 

Project background

You will be involved in our larger research program on self-regulation, meta-motivational beliefs, and goal pursuit processes. Self-regulation refers to the process of monitoring and modulating one’s thoughts, feelings, and behaviors to reach desired end states, which is essential in many private and professional contexts. While we have expanded our knowledge about what promotes vs. impairs self-regulation, less is known about what people believe and understand about motivation. Our project investigates how differences in meta-motivational knowledge influence goal pursuit and leadership and whether an intervention that aims to train people’s meta-motivational knowledge can enhance leadership abilities (e.g., the quality of their recommendations and mentoring).

The position will begin in the summer of 2023 at an agreed-upon date.

Job description

You will conduct experimental research focusing on this project. In addition, they will have the opportunity to pursue their own research interests within the broader context of self-regulation and goal pursuit research. You will be expected to publish your research findings in international peer-reviewed scientific journals, present your research at national and international conferences, and contribute to the group’s tasks and activities.

You will work under the supervision of Dr. Marie Crouzevialle and be integrated into the chair of Organizational Behavior. As part of the OB chair, they will have access to research funding and the chair’s laboratory facilities, which includes a behavioral and a psychophysiological lab (with electroencephalography (EEG) and electrocardiography (ECG)).

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 preferably in psychology or a related field.
• Knowledge of social science research methods (experiments, surveys) and statistic software (e.g., SPSS, R), is requested and some programming knowledge (e.g., Matlab, E-Prime, Python) is advantageous.
• German language skills are not required, but proficiency in English is mandatory.

Your workplace

Your workplace

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.

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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 Masters’ 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. Applications will be evaluated starting from April 20 and on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

For further information, please contact Dr. Marie Crouzevialle, by e-mail at [email protected] (no applications) or visit our webpage .

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 into society. Over 30,000 people from more than 120 countries find our university to be a place that promotes independent thinking and an environment that inspires excellence. Located in the heart of Europe, yet forging connections all over the world, we work together to develop solutions for the global challenges of today and tomorrow.