PhD PEACE-A study: Stress reduction in emerging adults with autism

The Adapted Physical Activity (APA) and Psychomotor Rehabilitation (PMT) research group aims to study human functioning taking a holistic approach, integrating body and mind. The focus of the PMT unit is directed towards mental health and mental health care in children, adults and elderly. We study physical activity, physical fitness and motor ability and the efficacy and effectiveness of mind-body and exercise interventions within mental health care settings.
The research project will be conducted in close collaboration with the unit of Parenting and Education (prof. I. Noens) and is embedded within the broader context of LAuRes (https://www.kuleuven.be/laures).
Website unit

Project

For many autistic individuals, transitioning to adulthood is challenging and results in high stress levels, which in turn contribute to poor mental and physical health in this population. Thus interventions targeting these health disparities should be provided. Among the non-pharmacological interventions aimed at improving mental health via stress reduction, guided breathing interventions are promising, also on psychophysiological level. During a stressful situation, internal regulatory processes take place to maintain balance, starting by activating the autonomic nervous system. Heart rate variability (HRV) is an index of the functioning of this system and research indicates lower HRV in autistic individuals. To date, research investigating the potential of interventions aimed at increasing HRV in autistic individuals is scarce. Moreover, HRV is influenced by several aspects (e.g., sleep, physical activity) and knowledge on their combined impact is necessary to understand how HRV can be used in research and clinical practice. Therefore, in this project, we will explore the role of physical activity, sedentary behavior, and sleep on HRV and determine what constitutes a significant change in HRV. We will also examine the psychophysiological effects, feasibility, and acceptability of the two leading protocols in guided breathing interventions (heart rate variability biofeedback and slow-paced breathing).

Profile

• You obtained a master’s degree in Rehabilitation Sciences (preferably in Mental Health Care), or in another relevant/related discipline; or you will obtain your master's degree no later than July 2024.
• You are interested in scientific research and motivated to start a PhD.
• You have achieved excellent results during your study program (minimum distinction).
• You have a strong interest/background in (1) autism; (2) stress physiology and stress management and (3) the impact of movement behavior on well-being.
• You are willing to assist with teaching assignments of the ZAP members of the research group or are interested in providing clinical services.
• You have excellent oral and written communication skills, both in Dutch and English
• You are proactive, accurate and eager to learn.
• You are flexible.
• You work efficiently, quality-oriented and with integrity.

• You have the necessary skills to interact with participants in an empathetic and professional manner.

Offer

• We offer a full-time employment as a doctoral fellow for a period of 1 year. If the evaluation is positive, the appointment will be extended for another 3 years (total 4 years). During this period, you will – together with the supervisors – apply for financial support for your project.
• Guidance in your growth process as a researcher by a driven team of promoter and co-promoters.
• You will work within a pleasant, stimulating, and motivated interdisciplinary research team, where fostering the crossroad between clinical practice and science is paramount.
• Excellent working conditions: https://www.kuleuven.be/personeel/jobsite/en/phd/phd-information#working-conditions
• Professional development through KU Leuven doctoral training and YouReCa (https://research.kuleuven.be/en/career/youreca)
• Start date September 1st, 2024.

Interested?

For more information please contact Prof. dr. Tine Van Damme, tel.: +32 16 32 61 72, mail: tine.vandamme@kuleuven.be.

KU Leuven strives for an inclusive, respectful and socially safe environment. We embrace diversity among individuals and groups as an asset. Open dialogue and differences in perspective are essential for an ambitious research and educational environment. In our commitment to equal opportunity, we recognize the consequences of historical inequalities. We do not accept any form of discrimination based on, but not limited to, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, age, ethnic or national background, skin colour, religious and philosophical diversity, neurodivergence, employment disability, health, or socioeconomic status. For questions about accessibility or support offered, we are happy to assist you at this email address.