[Job ad] Phd position on Higher Order Informational Interactions for Psychometrics (Ghent University)

[Yves Rosseel]

### Phd position on Higher Order Informational Interactions for
Psychometrics

PI: Daniele Marinazzo
Department of Data Analysis
Ghent University, Belgium

## Project

This project proposes a framework in which psychometric items such as
responses to questionnaires or clinical symptoms are grouped together in
terms of their informational content, which can be classified as
synergistic or redundant.

This approach will extend and complement the emerging field of network
psychometrics, providing advances and solutions that are both
statistical and conceptual. The implemented tools will allow researchers
in psychometrics to focus on the higher order behavior of the data,
moving beyond a pairwise network representation.

The goal of this project is to reanalyze datasets which have been
represented as pairwise networks, and provide a reinterpretation of the
results, in a complementary way with respect to the usual interpretation
in terms of latent variables and factors. The concept of synergy will
furthermore be used as a warning sign of impending transitions on
longitudinal data with the focus on prevention of mental health issues.

## What we are looking for

- You have a Master degree that implies a profound knowledge of
statistics and/or statistical physics, data analysis, and programming.
- For diplomas awarded outside the European Union, a certificate of
equivalence (NARIC) must be submitted. The degree requirements need to
be fulfilled at the start of your appointment.
- You have affinity with Psychology and Psychometrics, or Information Theory
- You are precise, creative, highly motivated and enthusiastic.
- You have excellent English communication and writing skills.
- You can work on your own, but also enjoy working in a research team.
- Knowledge of R and at one between Matlab or Python is an asset.

## Your tasks

- At least 90% of your assignment will be spent on academic research in
preparation of a doctoral dissertation
- You might supervise students working on their master thesis.
- You will assist in the internal and external services of the department.


## Offer

- We offer you a contract of definite duration with a maximum term of 4
years.
- Your contract will start on 1/10/2023 at the earliest.
- Your remuneration will be determined by salary scale WM1. See
https://www.ugent.be/en/work/talent/welcoming-new-staff/salaryscales/wpwm2.htm
for more information about our salary scales.
- All Ghent University staff members enjoy a number of benefits, such as
a wide range of training and education opportunities, 36 days of holiday
leave (on an annual basis for a full-time job) supplemented by annual
fixed bridge days, a bicycle allowance and eco vouchers. See
https://www.ugent.be/nl/jobs/personeelsvoordelen.htm for a complete
overview of all the staff benefits (in Dutch).

## Interested?

For more information please contact Prof. dr. Daniele Marinazzo, mail:
Daniele....@UGent.be. Applications should consist of a motivation
letter (including contact information of 2 referees) and a CV (including
copies of diploma certificates and transcripts at university level). You
can e-mail your application to Daniele....@UGent.be, no later than
July 7, 2023.

As Ghent University maintains an equal opportunities and diversity
policy, everyone is encouraged to apply for this position.

## About Ghent University

Ghent University is a world of its own. Employing more than 8,000
people, it is actively involved in education and research, management
and administration, as well as technical and social service provision on
a daily basis. It is one of the largest, most exciting employers in the
area and offers great career opportunities. With 11 faculties and more
than 80 departments offering state-of-the-art study programmes grounded
in research in a wide range of academic fields, Ghent University is a
logical choice for its staff and students.

--
Yves Rosseel
Department of Data Analysis, Ghent University

[Yves Rosseel]

(Apologies for cross-posting)