PhD Position in Machine Learning for Scientific Inference in Behavioural Science at Leiden University

Leiden University – Leiden, Netherlands
Application Deadline: 13 March 2026
Start Date: 16 April 2026
Supervisor: Dr. Marjolein Fokkema
Vacancy Number: 16386
Employment: Full-time (38 hours per week)

Overview

Leiden University is offering a fully funded PhD position in Machine Learning for Scientific Inference within the field of Behavioural Science. This research opportunity focuses on advancing interpretable machine learning, statistical methodology, and meta-analysis to improve the scientific value and generalizability of machine learning results in psychology and behavioural research.

The project is funded by the Dutch Research Council (NWO) and led by Dr. Marjolein Fokkema, Associate Professor in Methodology and Statistics for Psychology.

Research Focus: Machine Learning, Statistics, and Behavioural Science

Machine learning (ML) enables highly flexible modeling of complex, high-dimensional behavioural data. However, ML models often lack interpretability, valid effect size estimation, and uncertainty quantification, which limits their scientific applicability.

This PhD project aims to bridge the gap between machine learning and scientific inference by developing:

• Statistically valid and interpretable effect size measures for ML models

• Accurate uncertainty estimation methods

• Machine learning-based meta-analysis techniques for combining and comparing results across studies

• Generalizable frameworks for reproducible behavioural science research

The research sits at the intersection of:

• Statistical learning

• Artificial intelligence

• Bayesian regression methods

• High-dimensional data analysis

• Meta-analytic methodology

• Open science practices

Key Responsibilities

As a PhD candidate in statistical methods and machine learning, you will:

• Develop novel statistical methodology for interpretable machine learning

• Implement methods in open-source software (primarily in R)

• Conduct Monte Carlo simulation studies to validate new approaches

• Apply methods to real-world behavioural science datasets

• Publish research in peer-reviewed scientific journals

• Present findings at national and international conferences

• Collaborate with interdisciplinary researchers in psychology and related fields

• Contribute to software documentation, tutorials, and methodological guidance

• Participate in advanced courses and workshops within the Graduate School of Social and Behavioural Sciences

Research Environment

Faculty of Social and Behavioural Sciences

Leiden University’s Faculty of Social and Behavioural Sciences includes five institutes:

• Centre for Science and Technology Studies

• Cultural Anthropology and Development Sociology

• Education and Child Studies

• Political Science

• Psychology

The faculty hosts approximately 7,000 students and 1,000 staff members and is internationally recognized for high-impact research on human behaviour and societal structures.

Institute of Psychology

The Institute of Psychology focuses on research themes including:

• Health and Wellbeing

• Social, Cognitive, and Affective Decision Making

• Development and Learning

• Advanced Behavioural Science Methods

The institute emphasizes:

• Interdisciplinary collaboration

• Open science and research transparency

• Inclusivity and academic integrity

• Innovation in research methodology

With approximately 5,000 students and 600 staff members, it provides a dynamic academic environment for doctoral research.

Methodology and Statistics Unit

The PhD candidate will join the Methodology and Statistics Unit, which specializes in:

• Neuroimaging statistics

• Statistical learning and artificial intelligence

• Applied psychometrics and sociometrics

• Responsible research methods

The unit offers a collaborative, international research team committed to rigorous statistical methodology and open science.

Candidate Profile

Required Qualifications

• Completed research Master’s degree in statistics, data science, psychology, or a related quantitative discipline

• Strong programming skills in R

• Experience with data analysis and Monte Carlo simulations

• Excellent written and spoken English

• Strong analytical and communication skills

• Demonstrated interest in behavioural science research

Preferred Qualifications

• Background in Bayesian regression and high-dimensional modeling

• Knowledge of interpretable machine learning methods

• Experience with meta-analysis techniques

• Experience developing statistical methods or statistical software

Candidates who do not meet every requirement but demonstrate strong motivation and research potential are encouraged to apply.

Employment Conditions and Benefits

This PhD position is offered under the Collective Labour Agreement of Dutch Universities.

Contract Details

• Full-time position (38 hours per week)

• Initial 1-year contract, extendable to 4 years upon positive evaluation

• Monthly gross salary: €3,059 – €3,881 (based on full-time appointment)

Additional Benefits

• 8% holiday allowance

• 8.3% end-of-year bonus

• Pension scheme through ABP

• Full reimbursement of public transport commuting costs

• Minimum of 29 leave days per year (based on 38-hour work week)

• Flexible working hours and options for additional leave accrual

• Hybrid working within the Netherlands

• Home-working allowance (internet and remote work compensation)

• Laptop and mobile phone provided

• Access to university wellbeing initiatives and professional development programs

Leiden University also supports:

• Paid parental leave

• Sabbatical options

• Individual employment benefits exchange programs

• Sports and bicycle schemes

Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

Leiden University promotes an inclusive academic community where diversity of perspectives strengthens research and education. The university values equity, open science, and a safe working environment where all staff and students can reach their full potential.

Application Procedure

• Application deadline: 13 March 2026

• Interview period: 14–24 March 2026

• Project start date: 16 April 2026

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.

The selection process may include reference checks, diploma verification, and a certificate of good conduct (VOG).

In case of equal suitability, preference will be given to internal candidates.

Why Apply for This PhD in Machine Learning and Behavioural Science?

This position offers a unique opportunity to:

• Advance interpretable machine learning in scientific research

• Contribute to cutting-edge statistical methodology

• Work at a top European research university

• Develop expertise in meta-analysis and uncertainty quantification

• Publish impactful research at the intersection of AI and psychology

If you are passionate about statistical learning, behavioural data science, and improving the scientific rigor of machine learning, this PhD position at Leiden University offers an exceptional research environment to launch your academic career.

Apply now at : PhD position in machine learning for scientific inference for behavioural science Job Details | Universiteit Leiden