PhD position in Communication Science: Explaining Susceptibility to Health Hacks 1 / 1 Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities PhD MSc Closes on 26-10-2026 Publishing date 02-10-2026 Are you interested in why young people are drawn to quick health tips on social media, even when these tips may do more harm than good? Then this PhD project might be for you. View vacancy

This is a PhD position in Communication Science focusing on understanding why young adults are susceptible to potentially harmful "health hacks" found on social media. The role involves survey and experimental research to examine individual and contextual factors, as well as cognitive processes involved in evaluating such information. Applicants need a Master's degree in a relevant social science discipline with strong quantitative research skills.

• A completed (research) Master's degree in Communication Science, (Media, Social, or Cognitive) Psychology, or a related social science discipline, obtained by the start of the position.
• Strong quantitative research skills, including survey design and experimental design.
• Proficiency in statistical analysis (e.g., in R) and, preferably, experience with advanced techniques such as multilevel modelling, mediation/moderation analysis, or structural equation modelling.
• Affinity with, or willingness to quickly develop expertise in, dual-process theories of reasoning and cognitive processing paradigms.
• Genuine interest in health communication, misinformation, and the psychology of persuasion.
• Excellent academic writing and communication skills in English.
• A collaborative mindset and willingness to work closely with a parallel PhD track with a different methodological orientation, and to contribute to genuinely interdisciplinary integration.
• The ability to work independently and take ownership of a substantial part of a multi-year, multi-stage research project.