Researcher / PhD Position (m/f/d) in the Everyday Media Lab

The IWM invites applications for the position of a

Researcher / PhD Position (m/f/d)

Part-time 75%, fixed term for three years, starting November 2026 or later.

The Everyday Media Lab investigates (incidental) knowledge processes that occur when people engage with social media or communicative AI, whether in everyday life or in professional contexts. We welcome applicants interested in either of these research areas and particularly encourage projects that connect both, such as investigating AI-generated content shared on social media or the use of AI and social media in workplace contexts. Our research focuses on knowledge-related outcomes such as incidental learning, credibility judgments, or informational benefits and the cognitive and social processes that underlie them. Research in the lab draws on theories and methods from media psychology, social psychology, and communication science.

Your tasks:

Your responsibilities will include designing, conducting, and analyzing empirical studies, presenting findings at national and international conferences, and publishing in peer-reviewed international journals. In addition, you will support the administrative management of the lab. Writing your doctoral thesis on a self-generated research question in one of the research areas of the lab is desired and explicitly supported.

Your profile:

Above-average degree (Master's or equivalent) in psychology, cognitive science, empirical educational research, or related disciplines
Experience in the design, planning, conduction and analysis of quantitative empirical studies
Strong interest in knowledge-related effects of social media and/or AI use
Self-motivated and pro-active working style with an open and curious mindset; enjoy working in interdisciplinary teams and contributing to a culture of shared learning
Very good command of English; knowledge of German is an asset