PhD in Applied Behavioural Analysis
The Department of Behavioural Sciences – OsloMet has a vacancy for a fixed-term post as a PhD candidate in the field of behavioural analysis, connected to the following project: Psychoeducational Interventions for Preschool Aged Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): Evaluation of Efficacy and Impact of Early Intensive Behavioral Intervention (EIBI).
Field of work/project/field of research
EIBI, a psychoeducational approach, is recognized as an effective treatment for children with autism, as it can increase intellectual and adaptive functioning as well as reducing the severity of autism symptoms. Research on EIBI has traditionally been conducted when most or all of its defining elements are present. Due to economic, logistical, and other practical constraints, various adaptations of Early Intensive Behavioural Intervention (EIBI) are currently in use. Many of these versions deviate from the original model and do not fully incorporate its core, evidence-based components. Common modifications include: enrolling children who are older than the recommended age range; providing fewer hours of intervention than prescribed; limited or no active involvement from parents; and insufficient training or supervision for staff and caregivers.
Parents, professionals, and decision-makers may assume that similar outcomes can be achieved even when the core components of Early Intensive Behavioural Intervention (EIBI) are not strictly followed. However, this assumption is problematic, as there is no empirical evidence to support it. In this research, we will examine how deviations from key EIBI elements impact outcomes, using archival data from the Lovaas Institute Midwest (USA). The dataset includes over 200 children across several different intervention models.
Study 1 will compare the effectiveness of these various models. Studies 2 and 3 will analyse the relationship between treatment intensity and child outcomes. Study 4 will investigate how the age at which treatment begins affects global outcome measures.
The results from these studies may have important implications for parents, practitioners, and policymakers by providing evidence-based guidance to support informed decisions and ensure children receive interventions that optimize their developmental progress.
As a PhD candidate at OsloMet, you will have the opportunity to apply for a grant for an extended research stay abroad.
The desired start date is 1 September 2025.
Admission to the doctoral programme in health science is a prerequisite for the position.
The final plan for organised research training must be approved and agreed no later than three months after taking up the post.
Eligibility requirements
- second degree level subject/master’s degree in psychology, special needs education or health sciences
- knowledge and experience of EIBI
- excellent statistical skills
- in order to gain admission to PhD programmes at the Faculty of Health Science, applicants must have achieved a grade of B or better in their master’s thesis/second degree level subject and an average grade corresponding to B or better in the master’s degree.In exceptional cases, applicants with a grade of C may be considered. In such cases, relevant experience from own research projects and/or scientific publications will be emphasised. Please see information about the criteria on the admissions website (link to PhD admissions site)
- excellent written and spoken English
The general criteria for appointments as a PhD candidate are set out in the Regulations (Regulations to the University and College Act- Lovdata).
Personal characteristics
- motivated to conduct research within the subject area and research field
- excellent implementation skills
- ability to work independently and as part of a team
- excellent analytical skills
- excellent creative skills and the ability to innovate
Personal suitability will be emphasised.
It is important for OsloMet to reflect the population in the region and we would like to invite all qualified applicants to apply. We are working actively to further develop as an inclusive workplace and will adapt the workplace as required. We also welcome applications from those who have had periods in which they were not in employment, education or training.
What we offer
- an exciting educational post at Norway’s third-largest university
- access to further professional development in a creative academic and research environment
- a good working environment
- a developing workplace
- excellent borrowing and pension arrangements with the Norwegian Public Service Pension Fund
- excellent welfare schemes
The post is remunerated in accordance with the Norwegian State Salary Scale and OsloMet’s salary policy under code 1017 as a PhD candidate, with a starting salary of NOK 532,200 per annum.
The place of work is on site at OsloMet’s Pilestredet Campus and the PhD position will be part of the same research group as the supervisors in the department.
The application process
If you would like to apply for the position, you must submit an electronic application using the “Apply for position” button. All applicants will be assessed by a sorting committee within the faculty.
You must upload the following documents before the application deadline expires:
- application, CV and copies of all pages of degree transcripts and diplomas
- education from abroad should be approved in advance and the approval letter should be enclosed. Information can be found via this link: Recognition of foreign education – jobb i Norge | HK-dir
- statement of purpose
- second degree thesis/master’s thesis
- any scientific works or links to full articles
- list of any publications or presentations at international seminars/conferences
We only process applications submitted via our electronic recruitment system and all documents must be uploaded in order for your application to be processed. Documents must be submitted in English or a Scandinavian language. Any translations must be notarised. Original versions must be presented if you are invited to attend an interview. OsloMet will carry out document control to ensure that candidates are subject to a proper evaluation and fair competition. Incomplete applications will not be considered.
An appointment will be made based on the principles set out in the Norwegian Civil Servants Act (lovdata.no), as well as legislation governing the export of knowledge, technology and services. Background checks may be carried out in order to verify information provided in the CV and submitted documents. Background checks will not be carried out without the applicant’s consent and relevant applicants will receive further information about the process.
OsloMet has endorsed the principles set out in the DORA Declaration and the institution is committed to adhering to the recommendations therein.
Further information
If you would like further information about the position, please contact:
Application deadline: 31 July 2025
Ref: 25/04537
