Location: Munich, GermanyApplication Deadline: 23 November 2025Start Date: February–May 2026Contract Type: Full-time EmploymentSalary: TV-L E13 (65% for Doctoral Candidates, 100% for Postdoctoral Researchers) About the iSearch Lab The iSearch Lab, led by Prof. Dr. Dr. Azzurra Ruggeri at the Technical University of Munich (TUM), explores how children and adults seek, select, and evaluate information to learn about the world. The lab employs behavioral, computational, and cross-cultural approaches to investigate curiosity, exploration, and reasoning across the lifespan, with a particular emphasis on ecological active learning—how learners dynamically interact with their environment to make decisions and acquire knowledge. This position invites applications from highly motivated doctoral or postdoctoral researchers who wish to pursue independent research projects within the broad thematic focus of the lab. Candidates will have the freedom to develop and implement their own research ideas that align with the lab’s mission to understand how humans learn, decide, and explore. Role Overview The successful candidate will join a vibrant, international team and collaborate closely with Prof. Ruggeri. This open-topic position offers a unique opportunity to shape innovative research in cognitive science, developmental psychology, and active learning. Applicants are encouraged to bring new methodological or theoretical perspectives that enhance the lab’s current research directions. Duration and Contract Terms Doctoral Candidate: 36-month contract Postdoctoral Researcher: 24-month contract (extendable up to 36 months) Salary: TV-L E13 — 65% (doctoral) or 100% (postdoctoral) Full-time presence required: The position is based in Munich; remote work is not permitted. Eligibility and Qualifications For Doctoral Candidates Must hold, or expect to obtain, a master’s or diploma degree in Psychology, Cognitive Science, or a related discipline before the start date. For Postdoctoral Researchers Must have completed, or be about to complete, a PhD (doctoral degree) in Psychology, Cognitive Science, or a related field. Additional Requirements Research Skills: Experience in studying information search, curiosity, and active learning is highly desirable. Technical Skills: Proficiency in statistical methods and programming (e.g., R, Python) and familiarity with behavioral coding tools (Datavyu) and online survey platforms (Qualtrics). Language Proficiency: Excellent command of written and spoken English. Soft Skills: Independence, initiative, and a collaborative mindset. Residency: Willingness to relocate and reside in Munich for the duration of the appointment. Selection Process The selection process follows the principles of openness, transparency, and merit-based recruitment in line with the European Charter for Researchers and the Code of Conduct for the Recruitment of Researchers. Application Review: Evaluation of academic background, research proposal, and alignment with the lab’s goals. Interviews: Shortlisted candidates will participate in structured interviews with predefined questions. Reserve List: A reserve list of highly qualified candidates may be established for future opportunities. Selection Committee: The committee will ensure gender balance, international representation, and expertise diversity. Application Procedure Applicants are required to submit the following documents by 23 November 2025 to lab.isearch@sot.tum.de: Cover Letter (maximum three pages) describing research interests, motivation for joining the iSearch Lab, and a brief research proposal. Curriculum Vitae (CV) detailing academic qualifications and relevant experience. Certificates of academic degrees. Two Reference Letters from academic or professional supervisors. Shortlisted applicants will be invited to interviews in early December, with final selections expected by late December 2025. Benefits Competitive Salary: In line with the German public sector pay scale (TV-L E13). Social Security and Pension: Full coverage under Germany’s social security system. Professional Development: Access to training programs, career support, and networking opportunities. International Collaboration: Work with an interdisciplinary team in a leading research environment. Relocation Support: Assistance with visa processing and relocation for international candidates. Commitment to Inclusion and Equal Opportunity TUM is committed to diversity, equality, and inclusion. All qualified applicants, regardless of gender, nationality, disability, or background, are strongly encouraged to apply. The position is suitable for candidates with disabilities; they will be given preference in cases of equal qualification. Data Protection and Compliance Applicants are required to comply with TUM’s data protection policy under the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). By submitting an application, candidates confirm acknowledgment of the data protection notice regarding the collection and processing of personal data. VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram , WhatsApp, Twitter, LinkedIn and Telegram Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the seeking organization. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails, we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.