Academic Equity for Students with ADHD in Higher Education – Leiden University

Location: Leiden, Netherlands
Institution: Leiden University – Institute of Psychology
Employment: Full-time (1.0 FTE, 38 hours per week)
Application Deadline: 26 March 2026
Vacancy Number: 16382

Leiden University invites applications for two fully funded PhD positions in Developmental and Educational Psychology focused on advancing academic equity for students with ADHD in higher education. These doctoral positions are part of the research project:

“Time for Academic Equity: Optimizing Support for Students with ADHD in Higher Education”, funded by the Dutch Research Council (NKO).

This project integrates developmental psychology, educational science, and mental health research to improve inclusive policies and sustainable support structures within universities.

Research Focus: ADHD and Academic Equity in Higher Education

Students with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) represent a significant and growing population in higher education. Although many are highly capable and motivated, they frequently encounter increased academic pressure related to:

• Timed examinations

• Sustained attention demands

• Long-term academic projects

• Self-regulation and executive functioning

Rather than locating challenges solely within the individual, this research program adopts an interactional perspective, examining how:

• Assessment practices

• Learning environments

• Institutional policies

• Support structures

shape student wellbeing, academic performance, and long-term outcomes.

Both PhD candidates will conduct methodologically rigorous, real-world research while also developing university teaching expertise.

PhD Position 1

ADHD, Academic Pressure, and Assessment Practices

This project examines how students with ADHD experience academic pressure in assessment contexts, particularly in relation to time constraints.

Key Research Questions

• How does exam-related stress develop in everyday academic settings?

• How do stress and worry affect academic performance and wellbeing?

• Does extended exam time effectively support students with ADHD — and under what conditions?

Methodological Approach

This research emphasizes ecological validity by collecting data in authentic university environments using:

• Self-report questionnaires

• Ecological momentary assessment (EMA)

• Physiological stress indicators

• Experimental designs

Rather than assuming that accommodations such as extended exam time are universally beneficial, the project critically evaluates when, how, and for whom such accommodations promote academic equity.

Expected Impact

• Evidence-informed assessment policies

• Transparent decision-making in higher education

• Improved wellbeing and academic outcomes for neurodiverse students

PhD Position 2

Inclusive Learning Environments and Innovative Support Strategies for ADHD

This project focuses on improving support for students with ADHD beyond assessment accommodations.

Many students with ADHD understand effective study strategies but face challenges sustaining:

• Motivation

• Structure

• Focus

• Engagement during complex, long-term tasks (e.g., thesis projects)

Research Lines

1. Reducing ADHD Stigma in Higher Education

• Co-created psychoeducation for university teachers

• Improving awareness and understanding of neurodiversity

2. Supporting Self-Regulated Learning

• Peer-based learning groups

• Motivation and structure support during major academic tasks

• Enhancing social connection and accountability

3. AI-Supported Audio Learning Tools

• Alternative learning material formats

• Reducing cognitive load

• Increasing engagement for students with ADHD

Using mixed methods and intervention research, this project evaluates both effectiveness and feasibility, ensuring that strategies are scalable and sustainable within higher education institutions.

Key Responsibilities

PhD candidates will:

• Design and conduct empirical research in higher education settings

• Use mixed methods (focus groups, questionnaires, EMA, physiological measures, experiments)

• Analyze complex data using advanced statistical techniques

• Publish in international peer-reviewed journals

• Complete a PhD dissertation

• Present research at national and international conferences

• Contribute to science communication and knowledge valorization

• Actively participate in the Developmental and Educational Psychology research community

Teaching and Professional Development

These PhD positions are distinctive in their balanced focus on research and teaching development.

• 0.8 FTE dedicated to research

• 0.2 FTE dedicated to professional development in university teaching

• Supervised teaching experience

• Participation in certified university teaching courses

• Opportunity to obtain a University Teaching Qualification (BKO)

• Dual mentorship structure (project supervisors + independent mentor)

The program prepares candidates for academic careers combining research, teaching, and supervision.

Research Environment

Faculty of Social and Behavioural Sciences

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

• Centre for Science and Technology Studies

• Cultural Anthropology and Development Sociology

• Education and Child Studies

• Political Science

• Psychology

With approximately 7,000 students and 1,000 staff members, the faculty combines diverse research topics, innovative teaching methods, and strong professional support.

Institute of Psychology

The Institute of Psychology:

• Trains future generations through leading behavioral science research

• Covers both fundamental and applied research

• Hosts approximately 5,000 students and 600 staff members

• Operates across six research units, including Developmental and Educational Psychology

Core research themes include:

• Health and Wellbeing

• Social-Cognitive-Affective Decision Making

• Development and Learning

• Advanced Behavioral Science Methods

The institute prioritizes:

• Inclusive and safe academic environments

• Open science practices

• Interdisciplinarity

• Recognition and valorization

Candidate Profile

We seek motivated and reflective PhD candidates with strong interest in ADHD, academic equity, and student wellbeing in higher education.

Required Qualifications

• Completed (or near completion by 2026) Master’s degree in:

  • Psychology

  • Developmental Psychology

  • Clinical Psychology

  • Educational Sciences

  • Child and Education Studies

  • Neuropsychology

  • Or a closely related discipline

Desired Competencies

• Strong interest in neurodiversity and inclusive education

• Ability to engage respectfully with diverse student populations

• Strong communication skills

• Collaborative and interdisciplinary mindset

• Openness to learning new research and analytical skills

• Interest in combining research and teaching in an academic career

Experience with empirical research or educational practice is advantageous, but motivation, critical thinking, and teamwork are equally valued.

Employment Conditions and Benefits

Leiden University offers:

• 4-year PhD contract (1 year + 3-year extension upon positive evaluation)

• Salary range: €3059 – €3881 gross per month (full-time)

• 8% holiday allowance

• 8.3% end-of-year bonus

• Pension scheme via ABP

• Minimum 29 leave days (38-hour workweek)

• Flexible working arrangements and hybrid work options (within the Netherlands)

• Full public transport reimbursement for commuting

• Home-working allowance and equipment

• Professional development support through Graduate School

• Opportunities for sabbatical or paid parental leave

Diversity, Inclusion, and Academic Values

Leiden University is committed to fostering an inclusive academic community where:

• Diversity of perspectives strengthens research and education

• Students and staff feel valued and respected

• Inclusive education and research are central to academic excellence

Internal candidates will receive priority in case of equal suitability.

Application Procedure

Applications are open until 26 March 2026.

Applicants must submit:

1. A motivation letter indicating:

   • Interest in the project

   • Preference for Project 1, Project 2, or both

2. Curriculum vitae including:

   • Research and teaching experience

   • Language proficiency (Dutch and English)

   • Contact details of two referees

3. Academic transcript (Bachelor’s and Master’s grades)

A pre-employment screening may be part of the selection procedure.

Advance Academic Equity in Higher Education

These PhD positions offer a unique opportunity to conduct impact-driven research on ADHD and inclusive higher education, while developing into an independent scholar and reflective university educator within a supportive academic environment.

If you are passionate about neurodiversity, evidence-based educational policy, and student wellbeing, this doctoral program at Leiden University provides an exceptional platform to contribute to meaningful change in higher education.