ID 2512: Various Topics for Machine Learning and (Web) App Development in Health Psychology

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Overview of the stress+ workflow for remote stress induction
2. April 2025

Bachelor’s / Master’s Thesis / Research Internship / Project

The aim of our research is to explore the potential of digital technologies in psychological research to better understand human psychology and behavior. Many psychological research areas still rely on “traditional” methods, such as laboratory protocols or the collection of self-reports or obtrusive, often invasive biomarkers which lack of digital solutions and might limit the advancements of these areas. Thus, our goal is to tackle this issue by working at the intersection of technology, health, and psychology. The research projects of our group include the development of mobile apps, wearable and contactless sensing paradigms, machine learning algorithms, or other digital platforms that can assist in the assessment, induction, or intervention of various psychological states.

We always have open topics for various types of theses in our research area. Have a look at our group page to get a more detailed picture of our projects and previous student theses in our research area.

Possible topics could include (but are not limited to):

  • Large-scale psychometric network analysis of acute psychosocial stress responses
  • Further development of stress+, a web application for acute remote psychosocial stress induction
  • Extending the CARWatch framework for robust and reliable assessment of diurnal saliva samples; This can include the development of an iOS app, the development of a Browser dashboard for real-time compliance tracking, etc.
  • … and many more!

 

If you are interested in working with us, please use the application form to apply and tell us which topics you would be most interested in. We will then get in contact with you and together, we can identify a suitable topic for you.

A selection of different projects in health psychology.

 

Tasks

  • You will work in an interdisciplinary team with psychologists and engineers
  • You have the opportunity to apply your data science knowledge to practical applications in stress research
  • Depending on the topic and scope of your project, you will:
    • Support in data collection
    • Implement different algorithms into an existing data analysis framework
    • Perform statistical and machine learning-based data analysis
    • Document your code in a clear and structured manner

 

Requirements (depending on the topic and type of project)

  • Knowledge in data science and machine learning in Python, including data processing, data analysis, and data visualization
  • Interest in open science, affective computing, and psychology, especially biological psychology, psychoneuroendocrinology, and behavioral analysis
  • Further skills:
    • German skills for supporting in data collection

    Supervisors

    Robert Richer, M. Sc.

    PhD Candidate & Group Head

    Luca Abel, M. Sc.

    Researcher & PhD Candidate

    Prof. Dr. Nicolas Rohleder

    Chair of Health Psychology

    Please use the application form to apply for the topic. We will then get in contact with you.