Dr. Heinrich Liesefeld has been a researcher for applied statistics and cognitive modeling (Faculty of Human and Health Sciences) at the University of Bremen since November 2020.

Mr. Liesefeld, what are you currently working on?

I conduct basic research on the human visual system and am particularly interested in how we maintain visual impressions temporarily (visual working memory) and how we select the most relevant stimuli for our current goals from the overwhelming steady stream of visual stimulation (visual search). I use a variety of methods such as key-press and eye-movement measurements, electroencephalography, and cognitive modeling. I also contribute to the development of the methods I use in my research. For example, I was recently awarded a three-year DFG project on so-called speed-accuracy trade-offs in cognitive experiments (together with Prof. Dr. Markus Janczyk). I currently also devote a great deal of time to the organization of large-scale international collaborations in which many experts come together on a research topic and exchange ideas and expertise as well as pool available resources. I think this is a promising approach to overcoming the various current "crises" in the field of psychology and academia in general.

Why did you decide on a career path as a senior researcher?

I applied for the advertised position of senior researcher for applied statistics and cognitive modeling at the Department of Psychology because it offered me the prospect of a stable career as a scientist and my profile matched the job description closely. To me, the most important aspects of my work are conducting research and the training of talented junior researchers. I think that the position of senior researcher offers great potential to dedicate most of my time to these tasks.

Would you choose this career path again, and if so, why?

Whether I would choose this career path again now depends on whether my hopes are confirmed. Compared to other academic mid-level positions, the tenure and the independence in research and teaching are certainly clear advantages. Compared to a professorship, the significantly lower amount of committee work and teaching coordination could be a reason to opt for a (senior) researcher position. One disadvantage is the lack of resources; as an empirical academic discipline, cognitive psychology can only be pursued if funds are available for participant payment and hiring student assistants. However, this disadvantage can be compensated for by acquiring third-party funding and is therefore a strong motivation to write applications for said funding. I am very excited to see how this relatively new job category will develop at the University of Bremen and will do my best to make a positive contribution to the growth and visibility of this promising concept.