The ESSI research group focuses on transdiagnostic maladaptive behaviours in youth and young adults, such as self-injury, suicidal behaviour, and aggression. The group currently conducts three large-scale randomized controlled trials, alongside several epidemiological and experimental studies examining mechanisms underlying self-harm and related behaviours. Our group is physically and organizationally part of the Center for Psychiatry Research, a joint collaboration between Karolinska Institutet (research and education) and Region Stockholm (health care). Our offices are located close to KI campus and Odenplan, i.e. central Stockholm.
We are now seeking to recruit a Research Assistant for a 2–6-month project.
Published studies using person-specific psychopathology networks to identify treatment targets has typically relied on node out-degree centrality. We are looking for a research assistant interested in exploring and evaluating alternative analytic methods (i.e. algorithms) that takes more features of a network into account (e.g. network structures such as feedback-loops, or node features such as frequency or modifiability). Our group has several data-sets in which this can be explored, and access to clinicians to evaluate analyses against. The datasets consist of person-specific networks created using different versions of PECAN (i.e. not EMA).
Your task would be to brainstorm a set of analyses, discuss these with the research group, and evaluate the different options using the existing data. Analyses can be evaluated in terms of how understandable logic and results would be for patients, alignment with gold standard (e.g. a clinician analysing the network) and/or alignment with theory (i.e. taking hypothesised principles of network analysis into account). If other data sources are needed for specific analyses (e.g. expected modifiability of different nodes), a data collection might be initiated if feasible during the short project period.
You are expected to be able to generate ideas for analyses and how to evaluate them, as well as flexibly discuss these options with the research group. Ideally, the project would result in submission of a conference presentation, alternatively a method that can be incorporated in future publishable intervention studies (i.e. co-authorship). There are plans to announce a PhD-position in this project by autumn 2026.
This role includes both on-site and remote work, with at least half of the working time carried out on site. The specific dates can be arranged flexibly.
We are looking for a research assistant that shows curiosity, is analytical, intellectually flexible, and able to work independently while also engaging constructively in discussion with others. A structured way of working, good judgement, and the ability to communicate complex ideas clearly to both research and clinical audiences are considered important for the role. Personal suitability will be of great importance.
For this position it is required that the candidate has:
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Documented academic courses / thesis / publications covering the network approach to psychopathology, quantified case conceptualizations, or data-driven systemic approach to psychiatry.
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A masters degree in a relevant field (clinical or research methods in psychology, medicine, behavioral sciences etc), completed no later than the application deadline (9 August 2026).
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Documented proficiency in R.
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Fluency in English, both written and spoken.
It is meritorious if the candidate has:
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A masters thesis making use of network analysis or a structured method for case conceptualization. Can be empirical or theoretical.
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Clinical and/or research experience with adolescents or young adults.
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Experience of collecting person-focused research data (e.g. interviews, EMA, SCED).
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Experience of recruiting participants for research studies (ads, screenings, etc)
A creative and inspiring environment with wide-ranging expertise and interests. Karolinska Institutet is one of the world's leading medical universities. Our vision is to pursue the development of knowledge about life and to promote a better health for all. At Karolinska Institutet, we conduct successful medical research and hold the largest range of medical education in Sweden. Karolinska Institutet is also a state university, which entitles you to several good benefits through our collective agreement. And you get to practice freely in our modern wellness facilities, where trained staff are on site.
Location: Norrtull, Stockholm
Read more about the research group you will be part of
Choose to work at KI – Ten reasons why
The application is to be submitted through the Varbi recruitment system. In this recruitment, you will apply with your CV without a personal letter. Instead, you will answer some questions about why you are applying for the job in the application form.
Applications can be updated up to application deadline. You are therefore welcome to submit your application now if you expect to complete your Master’s degree by the deadline, and update your application once your degree certificate has been issued.
Anställningsform: särskild visstidsanställning | Anställningens omfattning: heltid | Antal lediga befattningar: 1 | Sysselsättningsgrad: 100% | Ort: Stockholm | Län: Stockholms län | Land: Sweden | Referensnummer: STÖD 2-2540/2026 | Kontakt: Lars Klintwall 0739844818, Lars Klintwall 0739844818, Johan Bjureberg , Johan Bjureberg , Veigabjörg Björgvinsson 0852483225, Veigabjörg Björgvinsson 0852483225, | Facklig företrädare: Elizabeth Valenzuela, SEKO 08-52486363, Elizabeth Valenzuela, SEKO 08-52486363, Per Hydbring, SACO , Per Hydbring, SACO , Yongtao Xue-Franzén, OFR/ST , Yongtao Xue-Franzén, OFR/ST , | Publicerat: 2026-06-09 | Sista ansökningsdag: 2026-08-09
