The main supervisor – Professor Larissa Samuelson

We call for requests to an exciting opportunity for a PhD process that is completely funded by a sophisticated project that examines the learning of early words and the development of vocabulary. The doctoral site is part of the European Union symbolism project (https://www.ntnu.edu/shape/home) Who examines the interaction of language and thought, specifically the visual perception of the shape of the object and encrypting it with languages ​​all over the world. A successful candidate with Professor Larissa Samuelson will work in a longitudinal study that follows how to generalize children from 24 to 42 months of age names of new organisms and how their vocabulary develops. The study will focus on children at risk of delaying language because we seek to understand the early difficulties in developing vocabulary and coding the information of the object shape that may be related to the difficulties of subsequent language.

We encourage applications from very enthusiastic candidates with a strong academic background in psychology, knowledge sciences or relevant discipline, and great attention to development research. Previous experience with experimental design, data analysis (preferably in R) or the development population is very desirable but not necessary. The successful candidate will join a vibrant and supportive research team with access to facilities and opportunities for professional development.

The main features of the project:

An opportunity to join an exciting project with international collaborators in the European Union, the United States of America and Japan

Participate in advanced development and cognitive sciences as part of the leading development science research group in UEA and the Development dynamics laboratory

Work with prominent researchers in a cooperative and multidisciplinary environment

Comprehensive training and support throughout the doctorate

If you are ready to take a difficult and fragmented project that would enhance our understanding of human cognitive development, we will be very happy to hear from you.

Entry requirements

The minimum entry requirements are 2: 1 in psychology or the formed subject and a master’s degree in related social science discipline.

Start date: February 1, 2026

Study method: Full -time

Additional financing information

These are fully funded doctoral students that cover tuition fees either on the rate of international or modified domestic fees and an annual maintenance arrangement at Ukraine rates (20,780 pounds for 2025/26) for a period of three years. However, note that visa expenses, additional health fees for immigration (IHS), or other costs incurred by the UK will not be covered.