Department of Psychology
PhD Position in Global Mental Health 70 %
Start of employment January 2026 or by mutual agreement, temporary
The Chair of Prevention and Mental Health in the Department of Psychology at the University of Zurich is seeking a PhD student to join our team starting January 2026 (or by mutual agreement). The Chair of Prevention and Mental Health is dedicated to innovative, interdisciplinary research that develops and evaluates new models of care to expand access to evidence-based treatment for mental health and related problems across the globe. We conduct high-quality research with the clear goal of having real-world impact. By collaborating with community partners and sharing evidence with policymakers and the public, we aim to bridge the gap between science and practice.
As a newly established Chair, we are building a vibrant and growing team with ongoing and new projects. This position offers excellent opportunities to gain expertise in conducting multi-site, international clinical research. As a PhD student, you will have the opportunity to learn how to develop and adapt behavioral interventions for mental health and related problems, design and conduct clinical trials, and use mixed-methods research approaches. This position offers strong mentorship, access to an international network of collaborators, and opportunitites to pursue one's own research interests that fit within the Chair's broader agenda.
Your responsibilities
In your role as a PhD student, you will have the following responsibilities:
* Pursue your own research agenda that complements and extends the Chair's ongoing program of research
* Conduct quantitative data analysis using existing longitudinal and clinical trial datasets
* Develop qualitative interview guides, conduct qualitative coding and analysis
* Publish peer-reviewed manuscripts in the field of clinical psychology and global mental health
* Coordinate and manage clinical trials and other multi-site research studies (e.g., writing and submitting ethics protocols and amendments, participant tracking, data management)
* Collaborate with international research teams, building strong networks and fostering cross-cultural research partnerships
* Disseminate findings to diverse audiences, including at international conferences, to community partners, and the public
* Mentor and supervise bachelor's and master's students, and contribute to teaching activities within the Chair
Your profile
We are looking for a highly motivated researcher who meets the following criteria:
* A Masters degree in Psychology or a related field
* Strong interest in clinical psychology/mental health research and conducting work locally and in international settings
* Experience with scientific writing or presenting, such as peer-reviewed publications, conference abstracts, or conference presentations
* At least moderate proficiency in conducting statistical analyses (e.g., linear and logistic regressions)
* Good organizational and communication skills
* Detail-oriented, self-motivated, and eager to learn
* Ability to work collaboratively among interdisciplinary and diverse teams
* Excellent English language writing and speaking skills (C1 or above)
* Willing and able to travel to study sites outside of Europe for several weeks at a time
Not required but preferred:
* Experience conducting and analyzing semi-structured interviews, focus groups, or participatory research methods
* Experience working on longitudinal or clinical trial studies
Information on your application
Please use the subject line "Application for PhD position in Global Mental Health" and send your application as a single PDF file. It should include the following materials:
* A motivation letter, including a summary of the following: (1) prior research experiences, (2) current research interests and fit with the Chair, and (3) experiences conducting quantitative and qualitative analyses
* CV, including a list of publications.
* One writing sample that represents your writing capabilities (does not have to be accepted for publication)
* Copy of your Masters degree
* Contact details (email and phone number) of three academic referees
Application deadline: October 30, 2025.
What we offer
Work-Life Balance
* Flexible working models (such as part-time positions, mobile working, job-sharing)
* Childcare at the kihz foundation of UZH and ETH
Learning and Development
* Wide range of continuing education courses of UZH and the Canton of Zurich
* Language Center run jointly with ETH Zurich
Food
* Food and drinks at reduced prices in the UZH cafeterias
* Lunch-Check-card with UZH contribution
Healthcare
* Special conditions on the Academic Sports Association ASVZ
* Free seasonal flu vaccinations
* Rest and relaxation at the quiet room in the university tower
Discounts
* Private traffic: Carsharing, rent a vehicle, parking space
* Digitalization: Hardware, software, mobile phone subscriptions
* Special conditions on hotel reservations
Conditions of Employment
* Policies of the UZH
* Most UZH staff are employed according to public law
International Services
* Support for people from outside Switzerland
Campuses
* Campuses Zurich City, Zurich Irchel, Oerlikon and Schlieren
* Sites Zurich West, Old Botanical Garden, Botanical Garden and Lengg
Location
Department of Psychology
Binzmühlestrasse 14, 8050 Zürich, Switzerland
Further information
Questions about the job
Prof. Dr. Jennifer Belus
Prevention and Mental Health Chair
Working at UZH
The University of Zurich, Switzerland's largest university, offers a range of attractive positions in various subject areas and professional fields. With around 10,000 employees and currently 12 professional apprenticeship streams the University offers an inspiring working environment on cutting-edge research and top-class education. Put your talent and skills to work with us. Find out more about UZH as an employer