Fully Funded PhD Positions in Human-Computer Interaction at KU Leuven in Belgium

Two fully funded PhD positions in Human-Computer Interaction

(Ref. BAP-2014-436)

Tewerkstelling : Voltijds

Duur : Bepaalde duur

Plaats : Leuven

Solliciteren tot en met : 15/10/2014

The HCI research group of the Department of Computer Science at KU Leuven in Belgium is looking for new members to join our team!

Two fully funded PhD positions in Human-Computer Interaction

Research in the HCI group of the Dept. of Computer Science, KU Leuven focuses on how people interact with information, relying on language technology (including text and multimedia mining), visualization and computer graphics. The focus is on new algorithms and interaction techniques, using the full spectrum of hardware from small mobile devices to large multi- touch displays. Applications include technology enhanced learning, music, research information systems and virtual worlds.
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Project

We have two fully funded open PhD positions:
Position 1: The focus of the research for the first open position is on the design, development and evaluation of second screen applications that enhance the television user experience. The main research interest is to investigate how value can be added to that experience and how user interaction can be designed in such a way that it enriches rather than detracts from the television content. This research will be carried out in the context of a project on personalised advertisements that involves several research groups, as well as content providers and ad agencies.
Position 2: The focus of the research for the position is on user interfaces for recommender systems that suggest items to match user preferences. The overall objective is to research the use of information visualization techniques to give end-users insight into the rationale of recommender systems to increase trust in recommendations. In addition, we are researching how we can use visualization techniques to enable end-users to help steer the recommendation process by providing feedback and additional input. 

Profile

We expect from applicants:
- an excellent Master's degree in Computer Science or related discipline
- a very good background and interest in human computer interaction research
- strong programming skills and the ability to do independent research
- strong commitment and the ability to work in a team
- a high level of proficiency in English, both spoken and written.

Offer

Funding is available immediately. The research will be carried out at the Department of Computer Science of KU Leuven.
More information about the financial compensation can be found online at http://www.kuleuven.be/personeel/jobsite/en/phd-info

Interested?

The deadline for submitting applications is 15 Oct. 2014. Applicants are encouraged to apply as soon as possible as positions will remain open until filled by suitable candidates.

Interested applicants should send their CV and letter of application, indicating the PhD position (1/2) that the candidate wishes to apply for, as well as an electronic version of a recent research project (e.g. master thesis, scientific publication) to Erik Duval (erik.duval@cs.kuleuven.be) and Katrien Verbert (katrien.verbert@cs.kuleuven.be) - or by the online application form listed below.

Inquiries about the positions can be sent to the same addresses.
You can apply for this job no later than October 15, 2014 via the
online application tool

http://icts.kuleuven.be/apps/jobsite/vacatures/53109170