Your functionWe are looking for a candidate who is developing a theory-driven experimental research programme that advances our understanding of the (neural) mechanisms underlying human cognition and complements the main research interests of the Cognitive Psychology section of the department. We are particularly interested in candidates with strong expertise in cognitive neuroscience methods, including EEG, eye tracking, and computational approaches to understanding brain and cognitive functioning. The successful candidate will thrive in a collaborative academic environment and demonstrate a strong commitment to high-quality, research-informed teaching. This position is open to all candidates, but we particularly encourage women to apply. As an Assistant Professor, you will contribute to the section’s research, teaching, supervision, and administrative activities. In cases of clear seniority in research and/or education, combined with substantial leadership experience (e.g., having obtained major funding, having fulfilled management roles), appointment as (or later promotion to) Associate Professor may be considered.
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What do we offer?EducationA challenging position in a socially engaged organisation. At VU Amsterdam, you contribute to education, research and service for a better world. And that is valuable. So in return for your efforts, we offer:
We Also Offer Attractive Fringe Benefits And Regulations
About UsThe Cognitive Psychology section is part of the Department of Experimental and Applied Psychology in the Faculty of Behavioral & Movement Sciences. The section's research programme has a strong commitment to theory development, and innovative research aimed at understanding the mechanisms underlying cognitive processes, such as perception, attention, working memory and language. We use innovative theoretical approaches and methodologies from cognitive psychology and neuroscience.
The Department of Experimental and Applied Psychology provides a vibrant climate with high quality teaching and research staff and PhD-students who are supported by excellent facilities for teaching and research (e.g., a good number of EEG, eye tracking and VR labs for experimental research). The section is affiliated with the Spinoza Neuroimaging center, which houses a 3T and 7T MRI scanner. The section is also part of the Institute of Brain and Behavior Amsterdam.
Psychology at the Vrije Universiteit has a world-class reputation in terms of research and teaching, as indicated by international rankings, research assessments, high-quality publications, high standards for teaching and mentoring, and frequent visits by international scientists.
Research and teaching have a strong international and interdisciplinary focus covering central themes in cognitive psychology and neuroscience and closely related fields. We participate in the international Bachelor Psychology and the popular Research Master Cognitive Neuropsychology. We furthermore contribute to Bachelor and Research Master Programs in Artificial Intelligence.
Faculty of Behavioural and Movement SciencesDeveloping knowledge for an active, healthy and meaningful life: that is our mission at the Faculty of Behavioural and Movement Sciences at VU Amsterdam. We maintain a broad focus on the fields of behaviour and health. Our teaching and research programmes are devoted to current developments in society. From healthy aging to e-health, and from training top athletes to social media as a teaching tool. We combine three academic disciplines: psychology, movement sciences and education. A multidisciplinary approach allows us to arrive at a better understanding of human behaviour and movement. Our aims are to help people live healthier lives, learn better and function better.
Are you interested in joining Behavioural and Movement Sciences? You are the kind of person who feels at home working in an ambitious faculty, with an informal atmosphere and short lines of communication. We offer you all the space you need for personal development. Together with your 630 colleagues, you will take care of about 4,200 students.
Vrije Universiteit AmsterdamVrije Universiteit Amsterdam stands for values-driven education and research. We are open-minded experts with the ability to think freely - a broader mind. Maintaining an entrepreneurial perspective and concentrating on diversity, significance and humanity, we work on sustainable solutions with social impact. By joining forces, across the boundaries of disciplines, we work towards a better world for people and planet. Together we create a safe and respectful working and study climate, and an inspiring environment for education and research. Learn more about our codes of conduct
We are located on one physical campus, in the heart of Amsterdam's Zuidas business district, with excellent location and accessibility. Over 6,150 staff work at the VU and over 31,000 students attend academic education.
DiversityDiversity is the driving force of VU Amsterdam. VU wants to be accessible and receptive to diversity in disciplines, cultures, ideas, nationalities, beliefs, preferences and worldviews. We believe that trust, respect, interest and differences lead to new insights and innovation, to sharpness and clarity, to excellence and a broader understanding.
We stand for an inclusive community and believe that diversity and internationalisation contribute to the quality of education, research and our services.
Therefore, we are always searching for people whose backgrounds and experience contribute to the diversity of the VU community.
InterestedAre you interested in this position and do you believe that your experience will contribute to the further development of our university? In that case, we encourage you to submit your application. Please apply following the application procedure and upload one single PDF that includes (1) a motivation letter, and (2) your curriculum vitae (which lists two references that we can contact). The motivation letter should outline (a) your research background and ambitions, (b) your experience with and approach to teaching, and (c) your complementary and supplementary fit and motivation to work with our group. Materials must be submitted by 15/10/2026.
If you have any questions regarding this vacancy, you may contact:
Name: Dr. Joshua Snell or Prof. Heleen Slagter
E-mail: j.j.snell@vu.nl (mailto:j.j.snell@vu.nl) or h.a.slagter@vu.nl (mailto:h.a.slagter@vu.nl)
As part of the application process, we may at a later stage perform a reference check and ask you to submit a diploma.
The application deadline is October 15, 2026.
The intended starting date is August 1, 2027, the latest.
Applications received by e-mail will not be considered.Acquisition in response to this advertisement is not appreciated.
