Post-Doctoral Researcher (m/f/d)

Leibniz-Institut für Wissensmedien (IWM) - Stiftung Medien in der Bildung (SbR)

The Leibniz-Institut für Wissensmedien (IWM) conducts research into the acquisition and sharing of knowledge and cooperation with digital media. The institute is a member of the Leibniz Association (Leibniz Gemeinschaft) and committed to international standards of excellent science.

The IWM invites applications for the position of a

Post-Doctoral Researcher (m/f/d)

Full-time fixed term for three years with possibility of a two-year extension, starting March 2026 (or later)
to contribute to a research project in the new research group of Prof. Garvin Brod. The project, conducted in collaboration with Prof. Amy Orben (University of Cambridge), investigates the effects of smartphone ownership on children’s psychological development. Using a randomised controlled design, the project aims to establish causal links between smartphone use, psychological well-being, and children’s learning and self-regulation skills.

Your tasks:

• Designing, coordinating, and analysing the planned one-year longitudinal study
• Leading a team consisting of a study coordinator and student assistants
• Presenting research findings at national and international conferences
• Publishing and documenting findings in relevant academic journals

Your profile:

• Excellent university degree and a relevant doctoral qualification in psychology or a related discipline
• Good knowledge of quantitative scientific methods; experience with ambulatory assessment / intensive longitudinal data / trace data is an advantage
• Strong interest in the impact of digital media use
• Experience in planning, conducting, and analysing empirical studies
• Publication experience in international peer-reviewed journals
• Very good command of English; knowledge of German is an asset

We offer:

We offer a stimulating and varied role with room for initiative in an interdisciplinary and internationally oriented research institute located in the centre of Tübingen. You can expect a modern, well-equipped workplace, a cooperative and open working environment, and opportunities for targeted professional development (including membership in international research networks) as well as fully funded research stays at partner institutions if desired.
We support the compatibility of work and family life, ensure family-friendly working hours, and provide a childcare subsidy for pre-school children. Hybrid (mobile) working is possible, and you may also take advantage of our occupational health management services and a subsidised Deutschlandticket as a job ticket. Employment, remuneration (pay group 13 TV-L) and social benefits, including company pension scheme and 6 weeks annual leave, are based on the collective agreement for the public service in the federal states of Germany (TV-L).

For more information, please do not hesitate to contact Prof. Dr. Garvin Brod by email: g.brod@iwm-tuebingen.de.

Please send your application in a single PDF file with the usual supporting documents and a covering letter, curriculum vitae and certificates by quoting reference number 1023-2025 to career@iwm-tuebingen.de. Preference will be given to applications received by January 11, 2026.

The IWM is committed to increase the number of women in research and therefore strongly encourages qualified women to apply.

The IWM is committed to equality for all people and therefore expressly welcomes applications regardless of age, disability, ethnic, cultural or social background, gender, religion, belief or sexual identity. Applications from equally qualified candidates with disabilities will be given preference.