PhD position for research on pornography use, sexual response, and sexual problems

Founded in 1961, the Institute for Family and Sexuality Studies is one of the oldest academic centers in Europe to focus on questions related to sexuality and family and relationship processes. The Institute is part of the Department of Neurosciences in the School of Medicine at KU Leuven, one of the most renowned universities in Europe.
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Project

You will be part of an interdisciplinary and interuniversity FWO-SBO project (UAntwerpen, VUB UGent, KULeuven, Hogeschool PXL) aimed at mapping the sexual well-being of adolescents and young adults in relation to pornography use. The project includes various (qualitative and quantitative) studies as well as the development of evidence-based tools and information to support young people, parents, and various stakeholders relevant to pornography use and well-being. More info about the consortium can be found at www.swyppe.be.

Research on (the consumption of) pornography has so far primarily focused on white, cisgender, and heterosexual men. However, little is known about the impact of pornography consumption on more diverse sexual and gender identity groups. Additionally, little is known about its impact on the sexual development of young people, even though many seek help for sexual problems and express a clear need for more information. This research examines the reasons why adolescents and young adults watch pornography, its influence on their sexual well-being and relationship satisfaction, and the potential risks and benefits for different minority groups. We adopt an intersectional perspective to look beyond singular categorizations and broaden existing theories. The project involves collaboration with 6 PhD students and valorization and communication managers and is strongly embedded in an interdisciplinary and interuniversity framework.

Your role:

- Literature review
- Developing and conducting psychophysiological and experience sampling (ESM) studies and being involved in the development of a self-report-based clinical tool.
- Processing and analyzing collected data.
- Publishing scientific articles and presenting at scientific conferences relevant to the research project.
- Collaborating with societal stakeholders to optimize the applicability of research findings to practice and their societal impact.
- Participating in the research- and education-related activities of the research group at KU Leuven (e.g., reading master's theses, exam supervision, etc.).
- Assisting in communicating results through a project website and social media.

Profile

You have a master’s degree in social or biomedical sciences such as sexology, psychology, health sciences, medicine, neuroscience, or another relevant field.
Your academic record is strong and exemplary.
You have experience or affinity with working with minority groups (e.g., ethnic-cultural minorities, LGBTIQ+).
You are proficient in and/or have excellent knowledge of quantitative research methods and analytical techniques.
You are quality-oriented, conscientious, creative, and collaborative.
You have a solid (written) command of the English language and an excellent command (written and oral) of the Dutch language.
You are committed to sharing your research findings through scientific articles.
You thrive in a team environment, possess strong communicative skills, while also showing initiative, independence, and creativity.

Offer

A full-time PhD fellowship for a maximum of four years.
A fair and good salary according to official scales.
You will be part of an interdisciplinary and inter-university team.
You will contribute to a socially relevant field where you conduct research for and collaborate with various stakeholders such as Sensoa, Cavaria, WAT WAT…
You will have the opportunity to build a (inter)national network, which also offers prospects for your further career.
You will have various opportunities for personal development through participation in conferences, Doctoral Schools, training, contributions to educational activities, and publication opportunities.
You will be supervised by Prof. Dr. Erick Janssen (KU Leuven promoter), Dr. Gunter De Win (U Antwerp co-promoter), and Dr. Rick Roels (KU Leuven co-promoter).
The starting date of the fellowship is January 1, 2025.
Institute for Family and Sexuality Studies
SWYPPE

Interested?

- A detailed CV
- A cover letter explaining why you are interested in this position
- Contact information of at least one reference (e.g., thesis or internship supervisor)
- A copy of your diplomas with a summary of individual study results for all academic years
- A document of 1-2 pages outlining a proposal within the domain of this PhD project.
- Possibly also your master's thesis or a publication with you as (co)author
A pre-selection will be made based on the submitted applications.
The further selection procedure is position-oriented and will be determined by the selection committee.
For questions about the PhD position, you can contact Prof. Dr. Erick Janssen (erick.janssen@kuleuven.be).

We promote and attach great importance to an inclusive working environment with equal opportunities - regardless of gender, disability, origin, beliefs, sexual orientation, or age. We encourage people with diverse backgrounds and characteristics to apply.

KU Leuven strives for an inclusive, respectful and socially safe environment. We embrace diversity among individuals and groups as an asset. Open dialogue and differences in perspective are essential for an ambitious research and educational environment. In our commitment to equal opportunity, we recognize the consequences of historical inequalities. We do not accept any form of discrimination based on, but not limited to, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, age, ethnic or national background, skin colour, religious and philosophical diversity, neurodivergence, employment disability, health, or socioeconomic status. For questions about accessibility or support offered, we are happy to assist you at this email address.