PhD Candidate in Psychology – Attachment Trajectories (Trondheim Early Secure Study, NTNU) Norwegian University of Science and Technology in Norway

The Department of Psychology at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) invites applications for a PhD Candidate position in Psychology, focusing on attachment trajectories from childhood to early adulthood. The position is affiliated with the Trondheim Early Secure Study (TESS), a renowned longitudinal research project tracking psychosocial development, mental health, and health behaviors in a cohort of approximately 1,000 children since the age of four. The current project aims to identify developmental trajectories of attachment and examine predictive factors using rich longitudinal data, including repeated assessments and detailed psychological profiles.

The successful candidate will join the TESS research group, comprising 10 researchers, 2 postdoctoral fellows, 10 PhD candidates, and 4 research assistants. Supervision will be provided by Associate Professor Kristine Rensvik Viddal, with co-supervision from Professors Lars Wichstrøm (PI of TESS) and Silje Steinsbekk (co-PI of TESS), and opportunities for collaboration with international researchers. The PhD candidate will report to the Deputy Head of Research at the Department of Psychology.

Key duties include reviewing relevant theory and research, analyzing complex longitudinal data, writing and publishing scientific papers in international journals, participating in the research group’s academic community, and developing research competence required for a doctoral degree. The position offers a stimulating environment with career guidance, mentoring, and access to employee benefits, including working capital for project implementation, favorable pension terms, and free Norwegian language training at a basic level (A2).

Applicants must have a relevant educational background in psychology, medicine, or an equivalent field, with documented knowledge in developmental psychology. Education should correspond to a five-year Norwegian course, including 120 ECTS credits at master's level and a master's thesis (minimum 30 ECTS credits). A strong academic record (B or better on NTNU’s grading scale) is required, though candidates with weaker grades may be considered if they demonstrate particular suitability for PhD studies. Master's students may apply but must complete their degree before starting. Competence in quantitative and multivariate methods and excellent written and oral English proficiency are mandatory. Admission requirements for the PhD program in social sciences, specialization in Psychology, must be met.

Preferred qualifications include knowledge of attachment theory and developmental psychopathology, experience with statistical methods for longitudinal data, proficiency in Norwegian, teaching or supervision experience, familiarity with academic software and digital tools, clinical experience with children/adolescents/young adults, and specialist qualification in clinical psychology or psychiatry. Personal qualities such as strong collaboration skills, independence, adaptability, perseverance, and capacity to engage with complex problems are highly valued.

The position is full-time, temporary (3 years), with a gross annual salary of NOK 550,800 (subject to a 2% statutory contribution to the State Pension Fund). Appointment requires admission to the PhD program within three months of employment and participation in an organized PhD program during the employment period. The candidate must be present and accessible at NTNU daily.

NTNU values diversity and aims to reflect the diversity of society in its workforce. The university encourages applications from candidates of all backgrounds, including those who have been out of work for a period of time. The city of Trondheim offers a vibrant cultural scene, excellent welfare services, and opportunities for education, nature, and family life.

To apply, submit your application electronically via Jobbnorge.no, including CV, diplomas, certificates, transcripts, master's thesis, project outline, motivation letter, publications, certificates, and names/contact information of three referees. All documents must be in Scandinavian language or English. Applications submitted elsewhere will not be considered. Certified copies of documentation may be requested at interview. The application deadline is 14 August 2026.

For questions about the position, contact Associate Professor Kristine Rensvik Viddal at kristine.rensvik.viddal@ntnu.no.