I study the development of self-esteem, life satisfaction, identity and personality in the context of social environments (social relationships) and life experiences (normative life transitions, non-normative life events). Methodologically, I apply longitudinal research methods including intensive longitudinal data (experience sampling) to study short-term dynamic person-context interactions and link them to developmental stability and change. Conceptually, my research takes a lifespan approach and integrates perspectives from developmental and personality psychology and I collaborate with researchers from other fields such as human resource studies, sociology and philosophy. I apply this research to address social issues such as immigration, the world of work and aging. 

• 2023 – Professor, Personality Psychology/Psychological Assessment, University of Greifswald
• 2017 – Assistant Professor, Department of Developmental Psychology, Tilburg University until 2023, continued affiliation, part-time employment since 03/2024
• 2016-2017: Postdoctoral Scientist at New York University & Columbia University, New York | Social Psychology | Fellowship of the German Research Foundation
• 2014-2015: Postdoctoral Scientist at Columbia University, New York | Columbia Aging Center
• 2010-2013 PhD Student at Humboldt University Berlin | Personality Psychology | Fellowship of the International Max Planck Research School (graduated with Dr. rer. nat., summa cum laude)
• 2003-2009 MSc, Philipps-Universität Marburg; Thesis: King’s College London (graduated with Diplom with distinction)

Courses taught at Tilburg University:

Theoretical Models of Individual Differences (Lecture)

Developmental Psychology (Lecture + Workgroup)

Development of Talent and Motivation (Lecture + Workgroup)

Psychology of Personality (Workgroup)

Research Skills in Psychology (Workgroup)

Professional Skills: Ethical Issues (Seminar)