PhD Position (m/f/d) in Cooperative Learning in Small Groups (75% TV-L E13, limited to three years)

The Hector Research Institute of Education Sciences and Psychology at the University of Tübingen invites applications for the following position to be filled as soon as possible:

PhD Position (m/f/d) in Cooperative Learning in Small Groups (75% TV-L E13, limited to three years)

We are seeking a highly motivated PhD candidate in the fields of Cognitive Science, Psychology, Computer Science, Empirical Educational Research, or related disciplines who is eager to engage in an in-depth and systematic investigation of the design and support of collaborative learning in small groups.

How do learners collaborate effectively in small groups? How can AI-powered team partners support them? What characteristics represent and capture group dynamics and engagement in collaboration? Which individual factors contribute to successful group work? These and similar questions are at the core of our research, conducted within an international research team that closely collaborates with the University of California, Irvine. We apply machine learning and learning analytics methods and aim to conduct experimental studies using multimodal data, including self-reports, eye-tracking, video analysis, and log data.

We are looking for a PhD candidate with a strong interest in both theoretical exploration and empirical, educational-psychological research on collaborative learning. Ideally, the candidate is passionate about the intersection of AI, group interaction, and educational science. Experience in experimental research is highly desirable, preferably complemented by strong skills in quantitative analysis methods, learning analytics, and machine learning.

The successful candidate will work closely with Dr. Tim Fütterer and Prof. Dr. Ulrich Trautwein and collaborate with researchers at the Hector Research Institute of Education Sciences and Psychology as well as the LEAD Graduate School & Research Network to design and conduct studies.

What we expect from you

• An excellent academic degree (Master’s or equivalent) in Cognitive Science, Psychology, Computer Science, Empirical Educational Research, or a related discipline.
• Openness to empirical research methods and curiosity about statistical approaches.
• Proficiency in English as a working language in an international research team.
• Experience with statistical analysis software, such as R, SPSS, or Mplus.
• Basic programming skills, preferably in Python, and familiarity with machine learning frameworks such as Scikit-learn, TensorFlow, or PyTorch.
• Ideally, experience with log data analysis.
• Willingness to engage in interdisciplinary collaboration and teamwork.
• Ability to work independently, strong personal commitment, and motivation.
• Willingness to continuously develop skills in line with the project’s requirements.

What we can offer you:

• An inspiring, productive, and collaborative research environment.
• Comprehensive supervision and a wide range of training opportunities, including methodological training as part of early-career researcher support.
• Support for interdisciplinary and international collaboration, including a lab visit at the University of California, Irvine, and participation in international conferences.
• Guidance in scientific publishing and the opportunity to share your research with a broader audience.
• Integration into the LEAD Graduate School & Research Network.
• Membership in a dynamic and motivated research team, passionate about education and innovative, technology-enhanced learning environments.
• (A 75% TV-L E13 contract, limited to three years. According to the general pay scale of German universities, this corresponds to a monthly salary of at least EUR 3,472.31 (75% position, gross pay, before tax). After taxes as a single (i.e. not married or living with a life partner; no children), the monthly salary is at least EUR 2,2218 (net salary after taxes and health insurance payments). Your income will increase regularly if you remain employed. Information regarding cost of living in Tübingen:https://tuebingenresearchcampus.com/tuebingen/)

For further information about the position, please feel free to contact Dr. Tim Fütterer attim.fuetterer@uni-tuebingen.de.

The Hector Research Institute of Education Sciences and Psychology is an intra-university research institute at the University of Tübingen that investigates individual, social, and institutional determinants of learning and educational processes. We employ a wide range of methodological approaches, from large-scale assessments and longitudinal studies to laboratory experiments and randomized field studies. Our close collaboration with schools and educational institutions enables us to provide evidence-based insights for improving the education landscape. Nationally and internationally, our research institute is one of the leading centres for empirical educational research. As an interdisciplinary team, we work in a well-equipped building located directly adjacent to Tübingen’s historic old town. More information about us and our institute can be found atwww.hib.uni-tuebingen.de. For more job opportunities at the Hector Research Institute, please visit the following webpagehttps://uni-tuebingen.de/en/45295.

We hope to have sparked your interest and invite you to submit your complete and compelling application (including a CV and transcripts) as a single PDF document, referencing “PhD Cooperative Learning”, by March 31, 2025, via email to:jobs@hib.uni-tuebingen.de.

Applications from equally qualified candidates with disabilities will be given preference. The University of Tübingen is committed to equal opportunities and diversity. It therefore takes individual life situations into account and asks for relevant information. The University seeks to raise the number of women in research and teaching and therefore urges qualified women to apply.