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PhD / Postdoctoral Position in AI for Mental Health Research 80%
The Chair of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy at the University of Fribourg is seeking a highly
motivated PhD candidate or postdoctoral researcher interested in the intersection of artificial
intelligence, psychology, and mental health.
Research Focus
People living with a wide range of health conditions share their experiences online and through
other channels. Together, these reports represent a rich source of experiential knowledge.
These experiences are valuable not only for other affected individuals, but also for generating
new scientific hypotheses, improving interventions, and advancing evidence-based healthcare.This project aims to develop AI-based methods for extracting actionable insights from large
collections of patient and client experience reports. These insights will be evaluated for their
potential to generate new research hypotheses, improve behavioural interventions, and support
the development of AI-assisted mental health tools.Additional projects include AI-based analyses of data from hospital clinical information systems
(pharmacovigilance) and digital surveys investigating the use of AI in mental health.Possible data sources include:
- Online experience reports (e.g. Reddit and discussion forums)
- Therapist-provided case material
- Automatically transcribed interviews and patient narratives
- Clinical information system data from large hospitals
Research methods may include:
- Large Language Models (LLMs) for qualitative analysis and knowledge extraction
- AI agents for data collection and evaluation
- Machine learning models trained on structured information extracted from experience reports
- Development of AI-assisted coaching and psychotherapy tools
- Data processing, management, and reproducible research workflows
Your Profile
Required:- Master's degree (PhD applicants) or PhD (postdoctoral applicants) in computer science,
psychology, neuroscience, medicine, data science, or a related field - Strong interest in mental health research
- Knowledge of statistics and research methodology
- Programming skills (Python preferred)
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in an interdisciplinary team
- Language: English (German/French optional)
Highly desirable:
- Experience with machine learning or AI systems
- Experience with LLMs and AI agents
- Interest in causal inference, prediction models, and personalized interventions
What We Offer
- A highly interdisciplinary research environment combining AI and clinical psychology
- Close collaboration with leading clinicians, AI researchers, computer scientists, and an innovative mental health startup
- Opportunity to translate scientific discoveries into real-world clinical applications
- Exposure to both academic research and entrepreneurial innovation
- Development of novel AI methods for psychotherapy research
- Access to clinical and research infrastructure at the University of Fribourg
- Co-supervision by Prof. Dr. Gregor Hasler (psychiatry, psychology, statistical methods) and Prof. Dr. Philippe Cudré-Mauroux (computer science)
- Collaboration with an AI/mental health startup
- Competitive salary according to University of Fribourg regulations
- Support for conference participation, scientific publications, and career development
Application
The position is available immediately or at a mutually agreed start date.For inquiries or to submit your application, please send your complete application package (CV,
publication list, motivation letter, certificates, and the names and email addresses of three
referees) to:
Prof. Dr. med. Gregor Hasler
Gregor.Hasler@unifr.chDeadline: End of August 2026.
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INTERSHIP POSITION : Minimum 6 month
The IC Stoke Team is looking for a student to collaborate on their research projects in Switzerland.
The student will have the opportunity to work in an international and highly motivating environment. The project involves the development of a new model of subcortical stroke in non-human primates and of cortico-spinal rehabilitation technologies for the recovery of arm and hand movements.
The student will help with the management and setup of behavioral tasks, and participate to scientific discussions and data analysis.
Prerequisites
- Knowledge in English
- Basic Knowledge in Matlab
- Positive and pro-active attitude
New Knowledge
- Software: Vicon, Nexus, Matlab
- Tasks: Kuka Robot, calibration, execution
- Data analysis : Tracking, progam execution
Interested persons lacking one or more of these requirements will be also considered according to the specific case.
Contact
Dr. Charles Latchoumane, latchoumane.c@gmail.com
